Nigeria needs stronger humanitarian collaboration, says Anabueze

Emmanuel Anabueze, founder of the Humanitarian Achievement and Outreach Foundation and the Nigerian Humanitarian Awards, is calling for enhanced collaboration among government, the private sector, civil society, and individuals to advance humanitarian development in Nigeria. He noted that while many Nigerians contribute significantly, the nation's escalating social challenges demand collective action and increased recognition for those driving positive change.

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There are many committed humanitarian actors in Nigeria, but the scale of our challenges requires stronger collaboration. Government, businesses, nonprofits and individuals must work together if we are to achieve sustainable development.

"There are many committed humanitarian actors in Nigeria, but the scale of our challenges requires stronger collaboration. Government, businesses, nonprofits and individuals must work together if we are to achieve sustainable development," Anabueze stated. He pointed out that numerous humanitarian workers go unrecognized despite their substantial impact. To address this, the Nigerian Humanitarian Awards were established to celebrate individuals and organizations that transform lives through service, focusing on "evidence of humanitarian work, consistency, integrity and the number of lives positively affected."

The Humanitarian Achievement and Outreach Foundation was created to improve collaboration, visibility, and recognition within Nigeria's humanitarian sector, with a specific focus on youth empowerment, education, entrepreneurship, women, and children. The foundation has facilitated opportunities through empowerment programs, educational initiatives, humanitarian outreaches, and youth development conferences. Anabueze identified funding and public trust as significant hurdles for nonprofit organizations, but stressed the foundation's commitment to transparency through documented activities, verified beneficiaries, and partnerships with credible organizations.

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We don’t reward popularity; we recognise impact. Our emphasis is on evidence of humanitarian work, consistency, integrity and the number of lives positively affected.

Anabueze also urged young Nigerians not to delay making a difference until they achieve financial success. "You don’t need money before making impact. Volunteer your time. Share your knowledge. Mentor someone. Organise your community. Sometimes your greatest contribution is simply showing up for someone who needs help," he advised. He believes Nigeria would progress further if more citizens embraced compassion, collaboration, and service to humanity.

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You don’t need money before making impact. Volunteer your time. Share your knowledge. Mentor someone. Organise your community. Sometimes your greatest contribution is simply showing up for someone who needs help.