As the world marked World Refugee Day yesterday, the Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) in Nigeria has urged African leaders and the global community to act decisively against the growing scourge of insecurity, displacements and mass killings across the continent.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the registrar/CEO of the institute, Dr. Prince Francis Origa, decried the worsening humanitarian crises driven by unchecked violence, governance failures and systemic neglect.

He said the scale of suffering in conflict-affected regions, particularly in Nigeria, demands leadership that prioritises people and upholds human dignity above political expediency.

“The insecurity we see across Nigeria and Africa is an undeniable driver of displacement, hunger and human suffering. This day is not just about remembrance, it’s a call to action,” he said.

The event also marked the official opening of nominations for the Pan-African Humanitarian Leadership Award (TPAHLA) 2025, themed; “Honoring Heroes, Forging Forward.” The award seeks to recognise individuals and institutions making outstanding contributions to refugee welfare, peacebuilding, and humanitarian innovation across Africa and the global African diaspora.

Dr. Origa noted that TPAHLA was founded to spotlight Africa’s unsung heroes, those advocating for peace, sheltering displaced families, condemning ethnic cleansing, and building grassroots solutions to crises often ignored by mainstream platforms.

“TPAHLA is our way of recognising those working day and night from researchers and policy advocates to community builders and spiritual leaders who keep the flame of hope burning for millions of displaced people,” he added.

This year’s award ceremony, he said is scheduled for October 15–19, 2025, at the prestigious Abuja Continental Hotel and is expected to host over 500 delegates from more than 30 African countries.

Over 100 honorees will be celebrated in categories such as Exemplary Governance for Humanitarian Impact, Youth Empowerment and Gender Equality, Climate and Environmental Leadership, and Human Rights and Social Justice.