Noting important progress in delivering life-saving aid to millions in north-east Nigeria, the top United Nations humanitarian official underscored that international assistance to people suffering amid the crisis must not dwindle.

"We have averted famine, but millions of people are still at risk if more international help is not forthcoming," said Mark Lowcock, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, at the end of a two-day mission to the country.

"At next week’s General Assembly in New York, I will urge world leaders to maintain their financial and political support for the Lake Chad Basin crisis, and to work with the Nigerian authorities to bring stability to the north-east," he added.

In particular, Mr. Lowcock, also the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, noted the Nigerian Government’s leadership and coordination of relief efforts and welcomed the Vice President’s assurance to extend the Government’s own food aid programme.

Read more

Photo: UN