The Red Cross issues plea for increased assistance amid growing humanitarian demands

n n

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Anambra State branch, has appealed for increased support from government, corporate organisations and the public to address growing humanitarian challenges and declining funding for relief operations.

n

The appeal was made during activities marking the 2026 World Red Cross Day celebration at the society’s headquarters in Awka.

n

Speaking on the theme, ‘United in humanity’, the branch chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Anambra State, Prof. Charity Emelie, said the organisation continued to play a vital role as a first responder during emergencies, disasters and public health crises across the state.

n

Emelie noted that the branch had strengthened its emergency response capacity by training volunteers and equipping a Branch Rapid Response Team to manage disasters and medical emergencies effectively.

n

According to her, during the Anambra State governorship election, the society deployed 215 members of its Emergency First Aid Team, alongside 465 trained first aiders and three operational vehicles across the state.

n

The first aid teams attended to 35 casualties involving fainting, dislocations and other minor medical conditions.

n

Emelie said the organisation had also expanded humanitarian assistance through partnerships with regional and international agencies.

n

She disclosed that an ECOWAS-supported intervention programme provided food items and cash assistance to about 1,000 households in Awka North and Ogbaru local government areas.

n

She said, “With support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, more than 1,000 households in Anambra West, Ayamelum and Ogbaru received cash assistance, non-food items and dignity kits for women affected by disasters.”

n

She, however, noted that humanitarian challenges are increasing at an astronomical rate while funding is dwindling.

n

Emelie said. “We need vehicles, ambulances, drugs and other relevant materials to continue serving vulnerable communities effectively.

n

“We appeal to stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, local government authorities and private individuals, to support the society’s humanitarian work, particularly its assistance to vulnerable persons and motherless children’s homes in Onitsha and Nnewi.”

n

Emelie commended Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, for their contributions to the Red Cross Society and appealed for sustained support.

n

Earlier, the branch secretary, Kingsley Okoye, appreciated stakeholders for their support and called for stronger collaboration to help alleviate the suffering of vulnerable citizens.

n

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, received an award for Distinguished Service to Humanity, while the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, represented by Ambassador Uchenna, also received an award in recognition of her support for humanitarian services.

n

n n