WFP Launches UNHAS Special Operation in Nigeria
With the escalation of violence in northeastern Nigeria and neighbouring countries, WFP launched its United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) in Nigeria on 17 August. This Special Operation is established to ensure humanitarian access to the North-East through the provision of air transport services as well as ensuring capacity to evacuate humanitarian staff when required.
Out of Abuja, UNHAS will serve four regular destinations: Bauchi, Gombe, Maiduguri and Yola. To ensure a complete regional network and connect humanitarian activities in Nigeria to those elsewhere in the region, flights will be offered two to three times a week.
Currently, the project has only received USD 700,000 (19 percent) of the USD 3.6 million required to implement the operation through 31 October 2015.