The United Nations has appointed Nigerian ‘African Queen’ crooner, Innocent ‘2baba’ Idibia, as its Refugees Goodwill Ambassador.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees announced this on Tuesday via its verified Instagram handle.
The body acknowledged the singer’s commitment and devotion to the welfare of refugees and internally displaced persons, while exuding optimism that he will continue in the path.
“We are so excited to share the news that @official2baba has been appointed @refugees Goodwill Ambassador!
“2Baba, your steadfast commitment for refugees and internally displaced people is remarkable and we are excited to continue this journey with you! Thank you for uplifting the narrative of the Africa refugee and IDP,” the agency wrote.
According to the United Nations Human Rights Council, over 30 million children have been forced to flee their homes and 79.5 million people are currently displaced globally.
The agency disclosed this on Saturday on the occasion of this year’s World Refugee Day with the theme, “Every Action Counts”.
There are over 60,000 refugees living in Nigeria, it said, adding that the agency will continue to take actions to ensure the education, shelter, livelihood, and wellbeing of displaced persons.
As an Afropop music legend, 2Baba has lend his voice to refugee and IDP course. In 2017, he wrote and recorded ‘Hold My Hand’, a song dedicated to internally displaced persons, which helped raise funds for UNHCR’s humanitarian response.
Taking to his social media page to make this announcement,
2baba wrote:
Honoured and humbled by my appointment as regional goodwill ambassador of UNHCR. Thanks for the recognition. This will no doubt deepen my commitment to supporting the effort of UNHCR personnel and volunteers who are on ground every day, working hard to provide support and hope to millions of forcefully displaced persons across the world.
Special thanks to donors and supporters of the cause. Blessings one and all.
#WARRIORS
#GRATEFUL
#ONELOVERELIGION
