The Cross River State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MHAPA) has joined the global community in commemorating the 2026 World Humanitarian Day with a solidarity march to honour humanitarian workers and draw attention to the need for greater support for people affected by crises.
The event, held on August 19, 2026, in Calabar, was organised in line with the United Nations’ annual observance of World Humanitarian Day, which honours humanitarian workers who have lost their lives while providing assistance to people affected by conflicts, disasters, poverty and other humanitarian emergencies. This year’s celebration was held under the theme, “Act for Humanity.”
The solidarity march, convened by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Helen Isamoh, attracted staff of the Ministry, government officials, members of the disability community, friends and well-wishers, as well as representatives of the Wife of the Governor, Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Isamoh described World Humanitarian Day as an important occasion to honour humanitarian workers, health personnel and other individuals who have sacrificed their lives or continue to risk their safety in the service of humanity.
She appreciated the Cross River State Government for its sustained support for the annual observance, noting that the state had consistently identified with the global humanitarian campaign.
“Last year we did this, two years ago we did this. This is not done without the full support of His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State,” she said.
The Commissioner also expressed appreciation to members of the public and private organisations that had contributed in various ways to humanitarian causes, stressing the importance of collective action in supporting vulnerable members of society.
Representing the Wife of the Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, the Senior Special Adviser on Administration, Dr. Comfort Oko, said the state government had embarked on awareness campaigns across the state to highlight the importance and role of humanitarian workers.
She urged residents to remember humanitarian workers, particularly those who had lost their lives while providing relief to disadvantaged and vulnerable people.
“Let us help their families, let us see what aid we can do to help them,” Oko said, before declaring the solidarity march open.
The march commenced at the Millennium Park and proceeded through Murtala Mohammed Highway to Mary Slessor Avenue, with participants marching through the streets of Calabar in an atmosphere of solidarity, singing and dancing before terminating at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs building.
At the conclusion of the march, Mr. Andy Akpotu-Adeshi, on behalf of the Commissioner, expressed appreciation to participants for their commitment and endurance throughout the exercise.
He also announced that the grand finale of the 2026 World Humanitarian Day activities would hold on September 15, 2026, featuring the recognition of individuals and organisations that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to humanitarian service, as well as a symposium.
By Owa Patience
