The Nigerian Humanitarian Awards & Magazine Conference commenced with meaningful conversations on the future of humanitarian action in Nigeria, bringing together humanitarian leaders, development practitioners, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders to reflect on the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector.
Representing the Executive Director of the Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF), Dr. Arome Salifu, AYGF’s Communications Officer, Gabriel Vein Akwara, participated in the discussions and delivered a thought-provoking address on the role of leadership and governance in building a stronger and more effective humanitarian future for Nigeria.
His presentation highlighted the importance of strong institutions, accountability, community ownership, sustainable interventions, and meaningful youth participation in decision-making. These elements remain critical to ensuring that humanitarian responses are not only timely but also responsive to the realities and long-term needs of the communities they serve.
The discussion also underscored the need for a humanitarian system that moves beyond short-term responses to crises and places greater emphasis on resilience, inclusion, local ownership, and sustainable solutions. Strong leadership and accountable institutions are essential to achieving this transition and ensuring that humanitarian interventions deliver lasting impact.
For AYGF, the conversations align closely with its commitment to strengthening communities, empowering young people, and supporting development approaches that place people at the centre of decision-making and action.
Day One set an important tone for the conversations ahead, reinforcing the shared responsibility of government, civil society, development partners, humanitarian actors, and communities in shaping a stronger humanitarian future for Nigeria.
