By Omoyeni Ojeifo
In an effort to enhance regional coordination against growing security and humanitarian threats, Nigeria has recommended the creation of a Nigeria–OIC Working Group on Humanitarian Affairs.
The proposal was presented in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, during a high-level meeting with the Assistant Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Amb. Dr. Tarig Ali Bakheet.
Ahmed received Bakheet at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, where both officials reviewed Nigeria’s longstanding and cordial relations with the 57-member Organisation and explored areas for deeper cooperation.
The proposed working group would address insecurity, humanitarian challenges, interfaith dialogue and assistance to displaced populations, according to statement emailed to PersecondNews, by the spokesperson of the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa Imomotimi, on Thursday.
Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives and programmes of the OIC, while seeking stronger cooperation in humanitarian affairs, youth empowerment, countering extremism, cultural exchange, capacity building and socio-economic development.
He also advocated greater cultural cooperation through festivals that would expose young people across OIC member states to diverse cultural heritage while promoting peace, unity and mutual understanding.
The Permanent Secretary further called for enhanced OIC-supported programmes in vocational training, women’s empowerment and healthcare development, stressing the need for initiatives that would deliver greater tangible impact to citizens.
Bakheet commended Nigeria’s active and constructive role within the OIC and expressed the Organisation’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in areas of shared interest.
He also invited Nigeria to consider hosting the next OIC Social Development Conference and annual cultural festivals, while encouraging stronger Nigerian representation in managerial positions within the Organisation.
Both sides agreed on the importance of sustained high-level engagement and practical cooperation for the benefit of Nigeria, OIC member states and the wider Islamic world.
Ahmed further assured Bakheet that Nigeria would participate in the forthcoming OIC Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, scheduled for August 27, 2026.
The meeting is expected to also feature the election of a new Secretary-General of the Organisation, further underscoring the importance of Nigeria’s participation in the high-level engagement.
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