The European Commission has granted Nigeria a €143 million support package for near-term humanitarian aid and an extended development support for those in areas ravaged by Boko Haram attacks in Borno State.

The package comprises development aid of €123 million from the Nigeria 11th European Development Fund National Indicative Programme and €20 million from the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa.

“Our support package of €143 million will assist approximately 1.3 million internally displaced people and affected communities in and around the Borno State in Nigeria. Our assistance will not only target the immediate needs of the people but, it will also help to restore basic services, stimulate employment and create livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and young people,” said Neven Mimica (photo), the Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development.

Africa’s second largest economy is one of four countries experiencing famine this year, around the World. Others are Somalia, South Sudan and Yemen. This latest package brings the total EU support for the crisis in the state to €224.5 million for this year, counting the previously announced €81.5 million humanitarian fund.

“The European Union is committed to get lifesaving aid to those in need in Nigeria. Emergency aid can help them but to do so aid organizations need safe and full access to do their job. We also need to think about the long term affects and how to help communities recover,” added Christos Stylianides, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management.

Anita Fatunji