Nigeria Proposes OIC Humanitarian Working Group to Address Sahel, Lake Chad Crises

Nigeria has proposed the establishment of a joint humanitarian working group with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to strengthen regional efforts in tackling insecurity, displacement and humanitarian challenges across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.

The proposal was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, during a meeting with the OIC Assistant Secretary-General, Ambassador Dr. Tarig Ali Bakheet, in Abuja.

Ahmed said the proposed Nigeria-OIC Working Group on Humanitarian Affairs would improve regional coordination in responding to insecurity and humanitarian emergencies while promoting interfaith dialogue and support for displaced communities.

He also called for stronger cooperation in vocational training, women’s empowerment, healthcare development and youth capacity building.

Beyond humanitarian and security issues, Ahmed proposed increased cultural cooperation among OIC member states, including cultural festivals designed to expose young people to diverse traditions and promote peace, unity and mutual understanding.

Bakheet commended Nigeria for its active role within the OIC and expressed the organisation’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the country in areas of mutual interest.

He also invited Nigeria to consider hosting the next OIC Social Development Conference and annual cultural festivals, while encouraging greater Nigerian representation in managerial positions within the organisation.

The two sides agreed on the need for sustained high-level engagement and practical cooperation to strengthen relations between Nigeria and the OIC.

Ahmed further confirmed that Nigeria would participate in the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting scheduled for August 27 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The meeting is expected to include the election of a new OIC Secretary-General.

The proposed initiative reflects Nigeria’s effort to strengthen its role within the OIC while using the partnership to address regional security, humanitarian, social and economic challenges.

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