The Kingdom of Thailand on Thursday donated 12 metric tonnes of Thai rice valued at 22,000 dollars to the World Food Programme (WFP) to support communities affected by food insecurity in Nigeria.
The Ambassador of Thailand, Thirapath Mongkolnavin, while handing-over the the Thai Rice to the Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent-Secretary, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs anf Poverty Reduction in Abuja, expressed concern for displaced persons in affected communities.
He disclosed that Thailand has been following developments in the Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) States with deep concern.
According to him, Thailand recognised the severe humanitarian situation to have affected hundreds of thousands of people across northeastern Nigeria.
Mongkolnavin said, “In response to this crisis, Thailand is pleased to announce a contribution of 12 metric tonnes of Thai rice valued at 22,000 dollars to the WFP, to help support communities affected by food insecurity.
“Earlier, the Royal Thai Government provided financial assistance of 10,000 dollars through the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund, managed by UNOCHA, to support humanitarian efforts in the BAY States.”
He expressed the hope that the gesture by Thailand will help bring relief and support to vulnerable communities during difficult time.
He described Thailand as one of the world’s leading rice-producing countries, saying the country is ready to share its knowledge,
experience, and expertise in rice cultivation with Nigerians, support sustainable food security and agricultural development.
Receiving the items, the WFP Deputy Country Director, Mr Edouard Thiam, said the donation reflected shared commitment to ending hunger and supporting the most vulnerable communities in northeast Nigeria.
According to him, security crisis affected not less than 6 million people in northeast Nigeria, amid shrinking resources, adding this contribution underscores the growing partnership between Thailand, Nigeria, and WFP.
“The inclusion of rice enhances the nutritional value and cultural relevance of our food assistance.
“The donation comes at a time of dwindling global humanitarian resources, helping sustain critical interventions,” Thiam said.
Speaking, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent-Secretary, Federal Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, said the donation reflect international solidarity, compassion, and shared responsibility in tackling food insecurity and supporting vulnerable populations.
“This timely contribution aligns with the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to strengthen social protection systems, enhance food security, and improve the well-being of vulnerable citizens.
“As we celebrate this gesture today, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to building partnerships that advance sustainable development, reduce poverty, and ensure that no one is left behind,” Olusanya said.
According to reports, he intervention is implemented by the WFP in partnership with the Federal for new arrivals in Internal Displaced Persons camps in Northeast Nigeria. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)