ECOWAS provides nearly $2M for Nigeria's flood response

At a ceremony in Abuja on June 13, 2024, Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation handed over cheques totaling almost $2 million to the World Food Programme and the Nigerian Red Cross Society. The funding was provided by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which tasked the ministry with coordinating the project.

Professor Fatou SOW SARR, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, presented two cheques to representatives of the Federal Ministry at the launch of its flood assistance program. The event was attended by officials from the Nigerian Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the World Food Programme. The cheques were subsequently handed over to the Red Cross Society and the World Food Programme.

Professor SARR gave a cheque for $906,205 to the Nigerian Red Cross with the aim of assisting 3,500 households in Adamawa, Anambra, Oyo, Kebbi, Kogi, and Rivers states in Nigeria. Additionally, 12 wells will be dug to ensure access to safe drinking water and reduce water-borne disease risks in these communities. Benson Agbro, Director of Disaster Management at the Nigerian Red Cross stated: "This agreement illustrates our shared commitment to humanitarian principles and the well-being of our citizens. It is a testament to what we can achieve through collaboration and solidarity. Together, we are not just responding to a disaster; we are laying the foundations for a more resilient and prosperous future for our nation."

Professor SARR then joined representatives from the Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs and Foreign Affairs to present a cheque for $1 million to Guy Adoua, Deputy National Director of the World Food Programme. Mr. Adoua commented: "This partnership will continue to provide essential food, nutrition and resilience building support to communities in Katsina and Sokoto States and strengthen state government institutions and programmes for greater sustainability."

ECOWAS and the Government of Nigeria have demonstrated their commitment to supporting local communities with this substantial contribution. “Together, we are creating sustainable solutions that will ensure long-term food security and resilience in the region.”