By Vivian Emoni
The Federal Government and the International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGO/NIF) Forum on Monday reiterated its commitment to provide humanitarian assistance to save and improve the lives of vulnerable people across the country.
Sen. Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, said this at an Interractive Forum with International Non-governmental Organisations (INGO/NIF), community and other stakeholders in Abuja.
The theme of the forum is, “Enhancing Cooperation and Coordination of the INGOs’ Community,’’.
According to him, the theme is in line with the 2021-2025 National Development Plan, Nigeria 2050 agenda, the eight point agenda of the present administration.
The News Agency of Nigerian (NAN) reports that the INGO/NIF is an alliance of international NGOs providing humanitarian and development assistance in Nigeria.
Bagudu, who was represented by Mr Bolaji Onanoja, his Special Assistant, said that the theme resonated deeply with current national priorities and developmental goals.
According to him, it is pertinent to note that INGO/NIF in Nigeria are diligently working across all 36 states, including FCT to bridge gaps that the government alone cannot fully address.
“The organisation provides vital social and development services in sectors such as health, education, water, sanitation, hygiene and human capital development.
“It offers nutrition, food security and livelihoods, youth citizenship, governance, Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
“This forum is actively providing humanitarian assistance to populations affected by conflict in the North-East and other affected states.
“It also protected and has empowered poor people in various ways.
“The contribution of the INGO/NIF to our national development aspirations is truly invaluable,’’ he said.
He said that the INGO/NIF have been instrumental in complementing government`s efforts by delivering critical services and support to vulnerable populations.
The minister said that the INGO/NIF work had significantly impacted on the lives of countless Nigerians, adding that it had helped in building stronger and more resilient communities in the country.
“The present administration has been steadfast in its efforts to foster economic growth and development through strategic partnerships and collaborations.
“The National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-2025 is a pivotal component of the Nigeria Agenda 2050, serving as a comprehensive blueprint for long-term economic transformation.
“It outlines our commitment to creating a resilient and sustainable economy that can meet the needs of our population’’.
Bagudu, however, appreciated the INGO/NIF
for their tireless efforts and contributions toward national development aspirations.
“I urge you to adhere to the established rules of engagement and also to strive for even greater levels of collaboration and innovation that will amplify the impact of your efforts.’’
Earlier, Mrs Lynn Beek, INGO/NIF, Director, said that the organisation`s collaboration with the ministry and other relevant stakeholders was essential for implementation of programmes.
Beek said that the programmes provided critical support to vulnerable populations, adding that the goal of the organisation was to improve the lives of the poor across the country.
She said that the forums` aim was to improve on the existing coordination and collaboration structures.
She said that the structures were aligning efforts with national humanitarian, development and peace building priorities and to find sustainable solutions to address bureaucratic and administrative impediments.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said the administration`s goal was to create an environment that fostered sustainable development and ensured well-being of all citizens.
Pate, represented by Dr Kamil Shoretire, Director, Health Planning, Research and Statistics of the ministry, thanked the ministry, NIF and other stakeholders for their collective efforts in implementing programmes. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)