Nigerian Red Cross appeals for N2.5b to fight hunger crisis

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has launched an appeal for N2.5 billion to address the growing hunger crisis, disasters and malnutrition affecting millions of Nigerians.

The appeal was made at the NRCS’s 2024 fundraising gala at the Civic Centre in Lagos.

According to the NRCS, the funds will be used to scale up their humanitarian efforts, providing lifesaving support in the most affected regions by delivering food, clean water, and essential sanitation services.

“We are calling on everyone to collaborate with the NRCS financially, physically, and morally,” said Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, Chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross. “Hunger in Nigeria is not an abstract thing, it is real. It’s the reality of a mother skipping meals so her children can eat, or a child going to bed hungry with no promise of food tomorrow.”

Mrs Bola Bakare Kolawole, Chairperson of the Lagos State branch of the NRCS, expressed her gratitude for the support shown at the event and reinforced the need for unity.

She called for a renewed commitment to combating hunger and improving the lives of vulnerable Nigerians through collaborative efforts and generous contributions from individuals and partners across the nation.

Bhupinder Tomar, head of the Delegation for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, underscored the severity of the crisis and called on Nigerians to support one another.

Also, Kanstan Voigi, the Country Manager for the British Red Cross in Nigeria, expressed solidarity with the NRCS and pledged continued collaboration.
“We appreciate the incredible work the NRCS is doing,” said Voigi.”

“The British Red Cross is ready to support and collaborate with them to help eradicate hunger in Nigeria. It is crucial that we come together now to implement preventative measures against future crises.”