The European Union (EU) has contributed €11 million (US$12 million) to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support food assistance and humanitarian operations in conflict-affected areas of northeast Nigeria.
A statement from WFP on Friday highlighted that the EU’s funding has played a crucial role in providing life-saving food and nutrition assistance to 1.4 million vulnerable individuals in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. These regions continue to grapple with persistent conflict, climate shocks, rising food prices, and weakened household purchasing power, with food insecurity projected to affect five million people at the peak of this year’s lean season.
Of the total EU contribution, €6.5 million was allocated to food security initiatives. The remaining €4.6 million was directed towards the United Nations Humanitarian Air Services (UNHAS), which enhances humanitarian access by facilitating the transport of personnel and essential supplies to crisis-affected areas.
Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance
WFP Representative and Country Director in Nigeria, David Stevenson, acknowledged the EU’s unwavering support, stating:
“The EU remains one of the largest contributors to WFP operations in Nigeria, and we are deeply grateful for their continued commitment. We also appreciate the collaboration of the Nigerian government and our humanitarian partners in delivering life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable populations in the northeast.”
The EU’s funding, provided through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations department (ECHO), has also strengthened UNHAS operations. In 2024, the service transported over 28,500 passengers and airlifted approximately 416 metric tons of humanitarian cargo. Additionally, an extra helicopter was deployed, and a new flight route (Maiduguri-Damaturu) was introduced to enhance accessibility in the region.
Denys Saltanov, Chief of UNHAS Nigeria, emphasized the critical role of air transport in delivering humanitarian aid:
“During unprecedented floods in 2024, UNHAS was instrumental in reaching locations inaccessible by road. The service facilitated the delivery of medical equipment, nutrition assistance, and other essential supplies to hard-to-reach communities.”
Global Humanitarian Efforts
The World Food Programme, as the world’s largest humanitarian organization, plays a pivotal role in emergency response, leveraging food assistance to foster stability and resilience in communities recovering from conflict and climate-related disasters.
Similarly, the EU’s Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) is a leading global donor, providing vital support to populations affected by crises. Through its extensive field network, the EU delivers assistance based solely on humanitarian needs, reinforcing its commitment to saving lives and alleviating human suffering worldwide.
This latest contribution underscores the EU’s long-standing partnership with WFP and its dedication to addressing humanitarian challenges in northeast Nigeria, ensuring that food assistance and essential services reach those most in need.
