**The Crooked Timber of Humanitarianism: Navigating the Complexities of Crisis Response in Nigeria** Humanitarianism is often associated with selfless acts of kindness and compassion, but is it truly a straightforward pursuit of good? The phrase "out of the crooked timber of humanity, no straight thing was ever made" suggests otherwise. This age-old observation by Immanuel Kant highlights the inherent complexities and moral ambiguities of human nature. In Nigeria, this crooked timber is particularly visible in the country's crisis zones, where humanitarian action is often entangled with the politics of insurgency, counterinsurgency, and economic interests. What began as emergency relief in response to Boko Haram's devastation in the Northeast has morphed into a permanent feature of governance and survival. Aid is no longer just a response to crisis, but a shaping force that influences the very dynamics of conflict and insecurity. Today, Nigeria is home to a vast network of humanitarian actors, including UN agencies, international NGOs, local organisations, donors, consultants, and contractors. While these actors have undoubtedly saved countless lives through food aid, health services, and shelter, their presence has also created a complex web of interests and motivations. Some argue that the continuous flow of humanitarian assistance, combined with massive defence spending, has created perverse incentives that make insecurity profitable. This is not a new concern. In 2021, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State raised alarms about the operations of humanitarian organisations in insurgency-affected areas, citing concerns that prolonged aid was creating dependency rather than promoting self-reliance. In February 2024, he took it a step further, questioning the role of NGOs in perpetuating insecurity. These concerns highlight the need for a more nuanced understanding of humanitarianism in Nigeria, one that acknowledges both its life-saving potential and its capacity to shape the very crises it seeks to address. As we navigate the complexities of crisis response in Nigeria, it is essential to confront the crooked timber of humanitarianism head-on. By acknowledging the moral ambiguities and conflicting interests at play, we can work towards a more effective and sustainable approach to humanitarian action, one that prioritizes the dignity and agency of affected communities above all else.