Let aid workers live

August 19, 2026 marked World Humanitarian Day, an annual observance established by the United Nations in 2008 to honor humanitarian workers who risk their lives to serve communities affected by conflict and crisis. This year's focus was on "Families of Fallen Humanitarians," highlighting the personal stories of those who lost loved ones while performing their vital duties.

The campaign emphasized the need to "Protect those who protect humanity," prioritizing the safety and well-being of aid workers in crisis-ridden zones. The theme also underscored the importance of shifting decision-making power and resources to local and national responders who bear the brunt of humanitarian emergencies.

In 2025, the Aid Worker Security Database (AWSD) recorded 907 attacks or kidnappings against aid workers and 350 fatalities, the second-highest annual toll since records began. The situation has worsened compared to the previous year, with 280 aid personnel killed in 33 countries in 2023, a 137% increase from 2022. As of early 2026, at least 82 aid workers had already lost their lives, 97 suffered injuries, and 39 were kidnapped worldwide, all while continuing to face threats, arrest, and detention.

In Nigeria, a high-risk subnational context in Africa, AWSD reports that at least 60 aid workers have been killed in the Northeast region among the 179 who experienced major attacks between 2011 and 2024.

Despite the immense challenges, aid workers continue to reach 87 million people facing severe humanitarian needs globally in 2025. One in every 35 people required urgent assistance and relief, according to UN reports. However, funding for humanitarian response plans faced a 20% decrease, reaching the lowest levels in a decade. In Nigeria, the projections indicate that approximately 34.7 million to 36.2 million people will face acute food insecurity during the 2026 lean season (June to August), with nearly 35 million Nigerians (15% of the population) experiencing severe food shortages due to persistent conflict, inflation, and climate shocks.

In the BAYE violent hotspots of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, approximately 6.4 million people face acute food insecurity (Phase 3 and above), with over 1.1 million in emergency conditions.

Humanitarian workers are the first responders in crisis situations, putting their lives on the line to alleviate suffering and provide much-needed aid. Daily Trust joins global citizens and organizations in urging all parties involved in conflicts to respect and protect humanitarian workers and facilities, as required by international humanitarian law.

They must ensure unhindered access for aid workers to reach those in need without interference. Perpetrators of aid worker attacks must face consequences, and there should be no more mere expressions of concern or condemnations. There is an urgent need for swift, thorough investigations to hold perpetrators accountable. Additionally, donor nations must increase their humanitarian aid contributions to support the challenging work of aid workers.

The focus should be on resolving conflicts through dialogue or political action, rather than resorting to violence, as it exacerbates humanitarian crises. Ultimately, promoting good governance, addressing mismanagement of resources, and returning to vibrant diplomacy are essential steps to prevent humanitarian disasters and ensure the safety of aid workers.