The United Nations says it is mobilising $351 million to support Nigeria’s humanitarian efforts in the North-East.
The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres made this known while briefing State House Correspondents after he met behind closed doors with President Muhammadu Buhari.
“We are very active in support of the humanitarian effort of the Nigerian government and that is why we have called for an additional $351 million as part of the overall $1.1 billion for the humanitarian response plan for Nigeria.”
The UN scribe, who was on a working visit to Maiduguri, Borno State, the worst hit by the insurgency, said from what he saw, great hope lies ahead.
“Despite all that they have seen and endured, the people I saw remain hopeful and committed to returning to their communities and resuming their lives. To that ends, I welcome the establishment of the Presidential Committee on the Repatriation, Return and Resettlement of displaced persons in the North-East,” he said.
Speaking on his meeting with President Buhari, Guterres said they touched on how to address the challenges confronting Nigeria and the smooth conduct of next year’s general elections in Nigeria.
“The spirit of hope amidst hardship and solidarity in the struggle was also at the centre of my discussions with the Nigerian President today. We discussed the importance of laying the ground work to ensure peaceful and democratic elections next year and the full participation of Nigerian women and young people in all areas.
“We also discussed the government’s measures to address security challenges across the country. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the victims of the appalling attacks in Plateau State two and half weeks ago. It is a tragic reminder of the terrorism scourge across West Africa and the Sahel. ”
The UN Secretary-General emphasized the commitment of the UN to combatting terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, poverty, and food insecurity
He also commended Nigeria for its role in sustaining peace in Africa and beyond as well as for playing the leading role in sustaining democracy on the African continent.
“I thank President Buhari for his unwavering support for the Multinational Joint Task Force and the Lake Chad Basin Commission. We also discuss the other challenges that Nigeria is facing today. Nigeria is a pillar of continental and global cooperation and a steadfast part of the United Nations.
“From its vital support for peacekeeping to its leadership in fighting for fairness in developing countries, to being home of my Deputy Secretary, Amina Mohammed, above all Nigeria is a country where Africa’s promise and potential can come to vivid life,” he added.
PIAK