The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called for urgent collaboration to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the South East region.
Speaking at a high-level roundtable discussion in Abuja titled “Through Their Eyes: A Call to Action, Addressing Humanitarian Challenges in the South East”, Kalu revealed that over 268,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are currently spread across 158 camps and affected communities in the region.
Organized by the Office of the Deputy Speaker in collaboration with the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P), the event brought together international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), government agencies, and parastatals to explore sustainable solutions to the crisis, which is characterized by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges.
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The Deputy Speaker highlighted the devastating impact of natural disasters, such as gully erosion, which has destroyed homes and forced many families into makeshift shelters or overcrowded host communities. These conditions have left vulnerable populations without access to basic necessities like clean water, healthcare, education, and adequate shelter, increasing their exposure to health risks, insecurity, and a loss of dignity.
Key Areas of Intervention
Kalu identified critical areas requiring immediate attention, including:
• Education
• Healthcare and Nutrition
• Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)
• Mental Health Support
• Gender-Based Violence Prevention
• Shelter and Housing
He emphasized the need for a collective response, stating: “The South East crisis is not just a regional issue—it is a national challenge that demands unified action. Together, we must align resources, strategies, and resolve to bridge the gap between immediate humanitarian relief and sustainable development.”
Kalu commended the contributions of INGOs, noting their vital role in food distribution, healthcare access, and systemic support for marginalized groups. He also reaffirmed his commitment to championing legislative policies to remove systemic barriers, enhance security in affected areas, and create a robust framework for interventions.
Participants at the roundtable, including representatives from INGOs, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, the National Refugees Commission, and the National Social Investment Programme Agency, expressed their commitment to supporting the South East. They emphasized the need for increased budgetary allocations in 2025 to enhance their capacity to tackle the region’s humanitarian and ecological challenges effectively.
The event marked a significant step toward mobilizing resources and partnerships to address one of Nigeria’s most pressing crises. The Deputy Speaker called on all stakeholders to remain steadfast in their mission to build a nation where no one is left behind.
