Norway increases humanitarian support for Nigeria and the areas around Lake Chad

According to the UN, some 2.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes as a result of Boko Haram's campaign of terror in the region. More than nine million people are now in need of humanitarian assistance in an area where living conditions were already difficult.

'Humanitarian needs have increased significantly during the course of this year. At the same time, only a third of the funding sought by the UN and its humanitarian partners has so far been forthcoming. It is vital that the international community now comes together to prevent further suffering and hunger. Humanitarian aid should be linked to long-term development assistance,' Mr Brende said.

So far this year, Norway has provided NOK 35 million in humanitarian assistance to Nigeria and the areas around Lake Chad. This is in addition to support channelled through Unicef to secure schools in north-east Nigeria, and aid provided through the UN system and NGOs that has not yet been earmarked.

The Government has recently stepped up its global efforts to promote stability and conflict resolution in fragile states and regions.

'The humanitarian crisis caused by Boko Haram's brutal acts of terrorism in this region highlights the importance of countering violent extremism and promoting development,' Mr Brende said.