The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, has urged Nigerians to embrace unity and collective action.
Commemorating the 2026 World Humanitarian Day (WHD), with the theme ‘Act for Humanity’. Umar commended Nigerian humanitarians, including first responders, volunteers and citizens, for risking their lives to provide relief during crises.
“This World Humanitarian Day 2026, we celebrate Nigeria’s humanitarians, responders, volunteers, and everyday citizens who show up when it matters most,” Umar said in a statement.
Umar urged citizens to demonstrate kindness and vigilance daily to strengthen community mechanisms for preventing and responding to disasters.
“Let’s continue to Act for Humanity: check on a neighbour, share safety information and support recovery.
“Small actions build a stronger, more resilient Nigeria,” Umar said, stressing the importance of collective responsibility during emergencies.
She reiterated NEMA’s commitment to disaster risk management, saying that proactive measures remained central to effective humanitarian intervention and protection of vulnerable communities.
“At NEMA, we remain committed to preparedness and rapid response to protect lives and livelihoods.
“Preparedness saves lives; humanity unites us,” Umar stated, urging Nigerians to prioritise safety, solidarity and support for affected communities.
The World Humanitarian Day is observed annually on August 19 to honour humanitarian workers and promote the survival, wellbeing and dignity of crisis-affected people.
The occasion also highlights the contributions of humanitarian workers and encourages stronger global and local efforts to address emergencies and protect vulnerable populations.
GIK/APA