The Nigerian Red Cross Society has expressed its unwavering commitment towards tackling and alleviating human suffering arising from hunger crisis and malnutrition in the country. The President of the organisation, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga stated this during the Nigeria Hunger Crisis Media Parley organized by the Nigerian Red Cross with support from the IFRC on Monday in Abuja.
He said the organization would scale-up the Emergency Hunger Appeal and reach out to over one million people with cash assistance that will allow them to support their household needs. Adeaga added that Red Cross would also provide cash support to pregnant and lactating mothers to prevent infant malnutrition and provide support to over 500 Mothers Clubs to help women learn about best nutritional practices and acquire valuable trade skills.
He explained that about 25 million are at risk of severe hunger and malnutrition including women and children. According to him ” Like all great nations, we must prioritize the food needs of our citizens. It is not just a matter of dignity, but a matter of urgent national security. The rising number of people who are food insecure is a threat to Nigeria’s peace and stability and we call on all well-meaning people and organizations to join the efforts of the Nigerian Red Cross Society to bring relief to some of the most vulnerable members of our society who now face the human indignity of not knowing where their next meal will come from.
” We at the Nigerian Red Cross Society remain undaunted and will continue to ensure that we alleviate human suffering in our country. That is our unending core mandate.
Our scaled-up Emergency Hunger Appeal will reach over one million people with cash assistance that will allow them to support their household needs, will also provide cash support to pregnant and lactating mothers to prevent infant malnutrition and provide support to over 500 Mothers Clubs to help women learn about best nutritional practices and acquire valuable trade skills.
” The Red Cross is a sure sign of hope. We bring succor to communities; we make sure that people get the support and information they need in moments of crisis. Our presence in all 36 states and the Federal Capital, with a strong base of over 800,000 volunteers across the 774 LGAs makes us a trusted member of the community.
” However, today’s information age has made it more difficult even to deliver accurate information to people who need it the most. False and misleading information hamper our effort to educate communities about good nutrition practices, safe health practices, the value of vaccine administration and encourage strict application of hygiene practices that can help families and communities stay safe and healthy”
On his own part the Secretary General, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Dr. Abubakar Kende said the Nigerian Red Cross Society remain the largest humanitarian organization in Nigeria which encompassing a vast network of 800,000 dedicated volunteers who reach the most vulnerable populations in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory
” Our creed is humanity, and our impartiality and neutrality are the cornerstones of our partnership with local, state, and federal authorities.
” Our activities are diverse, ranging from emergency response and First Aid to promoting long-term development services in public health, community development, youth empowerment, migration, climate change resilience, sexual and gender-based violence prevention, protection, gender equality, inclusion, and much more.
” NRCS is currently implementing health, livelihood, and protection interventions across Nigeria. These inclusive initiatives prioritize the socio-economic rights of children and other vulnerable groups we are dedicated to supporting.
” From the Saving Lives and Livelihoods program for COVID-19 to flood disaster relief, birth registration projects, and community-based surveillance for priority diseases, we are committed to securing a brighter future for those we serve.
In addressing the pressing hunger crisis, let us not forget the invaluable contributions of the Nigerian Red Cross Society. We stand here to serve, support, and uplift the most vulnerable among us. Our strength lies in our unity, and our purpose is found in our compassion” Kende added.
Source: Independent
