Humanitarian Award for Exceptional Service
The Coordinator of the Home for the Needy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, Mr Solomon Folorunsho, has received the “Living Legacy” Humanitarian Award. The award ceremony, organised by the Humanitarian Service Diamond Awards (HSD Award), took place in Abuja and recognized Folorunsho’s exceptional track record in national development, societal upliftment, and relentless service to humanity.
The Importance of Humanitarian Work
Speaking shortly before receiving the award, Folorunsho stressed the importance of translating humanitarian ideals into daily practice. He emphasized that it is the duty of the humanitarian community to prevent and alleviate suffering wherever it is found, with special focus on the most vulnerable. Folorunsho encouraged everyone in the humanitarian community to know that they are special in the hands of God and that their work will inspire others to join them.
The Need for Equal! Opportunities
Folorunsho added that offering help to the needy, regardless of religion, touches the heart of God. He explained that every activity at the Home for the Needy IDP camp is borne out of the need to serve humanity, noting that the less privileged also deserve dignity and care. Folorunsho emphasized the need for equal opportunities to be given to every human being, stating that when people are left without help, some resort to self-help, which often leads to crime.
The Plight of Humanitarian Workers
Dr Bashir Jamoh, immediate past Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), another awardee, noted that residents of the North East region face frequent attacks and threats. He called for a central body to protect humanitarian workers, stating that it is their duty to structure an organisation under which humanitarian bodies can unite to safeguard aid workers and support their efforts.
The Role of Media in Humanitarian Work
Jamoh also urged the media to help change negative narratives by educating the public and drawing attention to the plight of the less privileged. He emphasized the importance of supporting media teams who amplify these issues to the country and the world, stating that Nigeria is already tagged as one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarian workers.
Conclusion
The HSD Award is an annual event that celebrates individuals and organisations for their contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development. The 2025 edition, held in commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day on August 20, highlighted compassion, service, and the pursuit of human dignity, recognizing those who have made lasting impacts through community development, philanthropy, and social responsibility.
FAQs
- What is the HSD Award?
The HSD Award is an annual event that celebrates individuals and organisations for their contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development. - Who received the “Living Legacy” Humanitarian Award?
Mr Solomon Folorunsho, Coordinator of the Home for the Needy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, received the award. - What is the importance of humanitarian work?
Humanitarian work is important because it helps to prevent and alleviate suffering, and provides dignity and care to the less privileged. - What is the role of media in humanitarian work?
The media plays a crucial role in humanitarian work by educating the public and drawing attention to the plight of the less privileged, and by supporting media teams who amplify these issues to the country and the world.
