FG launches Localisation Project to strengthen Nigeria’s humanitarian response

The Federal Government has introduced the Humanitarian Supply Chain Management – Partnership for Localisation Project. This initiative, aligned with the Nigeria Localisation Framework, is designed to empower local actors and mobilize domestic resources to address the country’s growing humanitarian needs.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, launched the project on Thursday in Abuja. Shettima highlighted that the combined effects of climate change and global economic pressures have intensified Nigeria’s complex humanitarian challenges.

To respond, he announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the creation of a new Disaster Relief Fund, which will provide immediate assistance to disaster victims across the nation and complement the localisation framework.

“Localisation is not just about putting local actors at the center of humanitarian efforts; it is the key to a more inclusive, resilient future for Nigeria,” the Vice President noted, emphasizing the urgent need for action.

Building on the Nigeria Localisation Framework established in 2019, the new project seeks to prioritize national and local institutions in humanitarian decision-making. Implemented by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties, Emergency, and Logistics, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the US-based Fritz Institute, and local partners, the initiative aims to enhance local capacities and community involvement.

“Local communities understand their challenges best, and by empowering them, we provide them with the tools to shape their own futures,” Shettima explained, describing the project as a key component of President Tinubu’s strategy for human capital development. This strategy focuses on health, education, and livelihood stability to foster resilience within affected communities.

The Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties, Emergency and Logistics, Mohammed Ahmed, stressed the importance of a participatory approach to humanitarian aid.

“Government must be inclusive, ensuring that all voices from every segment of society are heard. Issues like climate change and conflict affect everyone,” he stated, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach across society.

The initiative also includes training programs to enhance local skills in supply chain management. Fritz Institute’s Project Director, Mitsuko Mizushima, emphasized the focus on local engagement, explaining, “This project is designed to give local people a seat at the table.” She added that over 25,000 people have completed standardized, free training in supply chain management, available anytime and accessible globally.

Dr. Mairo Mandara, Chief Adviser and Coordinator to the Government of Borno State on Sustainable Development, Partnerships, and Humanitarian Support, reflected on the importance of focusing on local needs.

“In Borno State, we’ve taken a human-centered approach to transitioning from humanitarian aid to development,” she said, underscoring the value of maintaining focused transition plans.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced that approximately 27 percent of its funding now goes to Nigerian-led organizations, a shift aimed at enhancing indigenous control of aid. USAID’s Acting Deputy Mission Director, Alexis Taylor-Granados, highlighted the agency’s commitment to empowering local groups.

“By transferring leadership to local people, we ensure that Nigerian organizations are better equipped and more responsive to their communities’ needs,” she noted.

Dr. Omokhudu Idogho, Managing Director of Society for Family Health (SFH), pointed out the importance of strengthening local laws and manufacturing capabilities to support localisation efforts.

“Nigeria has strong organizations capable of managing complex supply chain programs. With the right capacity, we can transform humanitarian aid delivery,” he said.