Health

Commissioner pledges support for humanitarian workers

Published by

August 19, 2023 3:13 pm

Cross River State Humanitarian Commissioner, Dr Helen Isamo Egodo has called for increased support for humanitarian workers and those in need of humanitarian assistance.

Today is set aside world over to mark the 2023 edition of World Humanitarian Day with the theme, “No matter who, No matter where” which is dedicated to recognise people helping people and those who have lost their lives working for humanitarian causes.

Recall the Honorable Commissioner in charge of Humanitarian Affairs was inaugurated few days ago by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State.

Emphasising the need to recognize and support people helping people and those who have lost their lives working for humanitarian causes, Dr. Helen Egodo announced that the government would initiate specific programmes to address urgent threats and challenges posed to victims of communal clashes, flood, erosion, rainstorm, climate change, windstorms, drought, disease, hunger, internal displacement and other humanitarian challenges in the State.

According to her, “As the pioneer Commissioner in charge of the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry in Cross Rive State since the return to civil rule, I wish to celebrate this day with a reinforcement of our determination for humanity and to shed light on the importance of combining efforts towards a safer and prosperous Cross River.

“The Ministry will pay particular attention to these emerging issues by facilitating the return and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and providing needed support to the increasing number of orphans and widows in the State. We will come up with specific programmes and projects that respond to these challenges as well as that of children orphaned by crisis.

“The Ministry will continue to stand in solidarity with humanitarian aid workers and recognize their tremendous service and sacrifice. We appreciate their tireless efforts to save lives, preserve human dignity, and alleviate suffering. Their selfless commitment and actions are encouraging and worthy of emulation. The State Government will continue to support this laudable effort.

The Commissioner appealed for continued cooperation and support of all relevant public, private, local and international organisations to support the State Government’s drive in this direction, stressing that, the ministry shall work closely with all International and Local Humanitarian and Developmental Organizations for their support in complementing its efforts to combat and stabilize the much-needed challenges in the State.

While commending the governor for his vision in establishing the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs in the State, she acknowledged humanitarian aid workers across the globe, particularly in Cross River State for distinguishing themselves through their courage, commitment and drive to help their fellow humans in need regardless of the extreme risks they face.

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