The Swiss government has announced a donation of N1.9 billion for the assistance of flood victims in Nigeria, according to a statement from the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria.
A statement by the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Nicolas Lang explained that the funds would be channeled through the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund managed by the United Nations, noting that the contribution would complement the efforts of the Nigerian Government to respond to the crisis.
According to him, flood-affected people would be provided with multi-sectoral assistance like healthcare, water and sanitation measures to prevent the spread of a cholera outbreak, temporary shelter, food security, as well as protection services.
The Envoy said: “Switzerland is committing approximately 1.9 billion Naira (1.2 million US dollars) to support the humanitarian response to the ongoing devastating floods in Nigeria, including in Borno State capital Maiduguri.
“The funding support will be channeled through the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund managed by the United Nations.
“This contribution will complement the efforts of the Nigerian Government to respond to the crisis.
“Flood-affected people will be provided with multi-sectoral assistance to meet their immediate basic needs. This will include health, water and sanitation measures to prevent the spread of a cholera outbreak, temporary shelter, food security, as well as protection services,” Lang said.
“This contribution to the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund will come in direct support to the Government’s efforts to provide immediate life-saving assistance.
“Providing such humanitarian support has been a key pillar of our close and longstanding relationship with Nigeria. We are also exploring ways to potentially assist efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness.
“With its ability to swiftly disburse funds and select the most relevant partners, including local organizations, I am confident that the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund will be an effective vehicle to provide immediate relief to the thousands of affected people in dire need of humanitarian assistance.”
