Red Cross considers raising N2.5b to battle hunger, food insecurity

The Nigerian Red Cross Society aims to raise N2.5 billion to mitigate the effects of severe hunger and malnutrition in Nigeria. Widely circulated reports suggest that unless emergency measures are taken, over 31.5 million Nigerians will face food insecurity between January and October 2024. Factors such as conflict, inflation, and economic challenges are exacerbating the situation.

Further research indicates that by October 2024, prices of staple foods like grains will have at least tripled, according to relative market indices. The famine early warning system reports that between September 2023 and now, severe acute malnutrition among children has increased by at least 70 per cent.

Further research suggests that increased support from other partners, organisations, and individuals is urgent now. The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), launched an emergency appeal to assist the most vulnerable people across Nigeria over the next 18 months.

The President of the NRCS, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, who briefed journalists yesterday, said the target sum is N2.5 billion. According to him, the appeal focuses on enhancing livelihoods, health, nutrition, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services in the most affected regions.

“It is anticipated that the ongoing conflict, economic instability, and high food prices will continue to drive food insecurity and malnutrition challenges through 2024.

“To stave off this prospect, the Nigerian Red Cross Society is set to host its first-ever yearly fundraising gala night tomorrow, Saturday, September 28, at about 6:00 p.m., at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

“This black-tie event, themed: ‘Keeping Humanity Alive,’ aims to raise N2.5 billion to support the hunger crisis appeal and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene programmes across Nigeria,” he said.

Adeaga, who was represented by the chairman of the Lagos State chapter, Mrs Ademola Kolawole, said the gala night promises to be an evening of elegance, featuring a gourmet dinner prepared by a celebrated chef, a performance by a renowned international artist and a fashion show.

Attendees, including 200 distinguished guests from business, civil society, politics, entertainment, and media, will also have the opportunity to participate in a raffle and pledge support through donation cards.