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UN Releases US$125m For Humanitarian Operations In 7 African Countries
UN Relief Chief Martin Griffiths, yesterday released US$125 million from the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to assist underfunded humanitarian operations in 14 countries across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East.
The seven African countries listed are Burkina Faso US$9 million; Mali US$8 million; Central African Republic US$6.5 million; Mozambique US$6.5 million; Uganda US$6 million; Cameroon US$6 million; and Malawi US$4 million.
Afghanistan is to get US$20 million; Yemen US$20 million; Myanmar, US$9 million; Haiti US$8 million; Venezuela US$8 million; and Bangladesh US$8 million and Occupied Palestinian Territories US$6 million.
The UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) which Griffiths leads, reported that in 2023, global funding requirements have surpassed US$55 billion to support 250 million people affected by conflict, climate change, disease outbreaks, and other crises.
Faced with these record needs, less than 30 per cent of the target funding goal has been received.
“It is a cruel reality that in many humanitarian operations, aid agencies are scraping along with very little funding right at a time when people’s needs compel them to scale up,” Emergency Relief Coordinator, Griffiths, said.
“Thanks to the generosity of a vast range of donors, we can count on CERF to fill some of the gaps. Lives are saved as a result.
“But we need individual donors to step up as well – this is a fund by all and for all.’’
The recent injection brings the emergency fund’s total support to more than US$270 million this year.
This is the largest amount ever allocated to the highest number of countries, reflecting skyrocketing needs and the fact that regular donor funding is not keeping pace.
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RSG INAUGURATES ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY COMMITTEE
The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to organize the celebration of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) in the State.
The committee was formally inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba in Port Harcourt, last Thursday.
Dr Anabraba who also serves as Chairman of the Committee
highlighted the State Government’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes who laid down their lives for the nation’s peace and unity.
“These heroes have given their lives for the security and peace of our nation and deserve to be celebrated. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifice,” he said.
Dr. Anabraba further extended recognition to all Security Agencies in the State, emphasizing the importance of the event in appreciating their contributions to national security and sovereignty.
The annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed on January 15 across the country is dedicated to remember Nigeria’s departed soldiers and honouring the nation’s veterans.
