Abuja, Nigeria – October 2nd, 2024
The Nigerian Red Cross Society has called for urgent, collective action to combat hunger across the nation. Speaking at the fundraising and gala night held at the Civic Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, urged Nigerians to come together to rewrite the story of hunger in the country.
The fundraising event, themed ‘Keeping Humanity Alive’, is part of the Nigerian Red Cross Society’s campaign to address the growing hunger crisis and provide critical support to vulnerable communities.
The organization aims to raise N2.5 billion to fund its humanitarian programs, including Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives and hunger relief efforts.
During his keynote address, Adeaga emphasized that disasters and hunger know no boundaries, ethnicity, faith, gender, or nationality. “We are gathered here not just for a fundraising dinner but for something far more meaningful. In our hearts, we know we have the power to change lives,” he stated.
Adeaga expressed deep concern about the 32 million Nigerians facing hunger and malnutrition, adding, “These are not just statistics; they are real people—our people—living through unimaginable hardship. But there is hope, and that hope lies in the generosity of compassionate individuals like those gathered here today.”
Bhupinder Tomar, Head of Delegation for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need for action. He stated that food insecurity, worsened by climate-induced droughts and floods, is a harsh reality for millions of Nigerians. “This is a call to action. It is a challenge that requires collective effort to ensure no Nigerian goes hungry,” Tomar remarked.
Mrs. Bola Kolawole, Chairperson of the Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Red Cross, in her welcome address, commended those in attendance for their shared commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable Nigerians. She noted the importance of Lagos as a financial hub and highlighted the determination of millions of Nigerians to create a better future, despite the pressing challenges they face.
The event underscored the Nigerian Red Cross’s dedication to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of communities affected by hunger. With the efforts of donors, volunteers, and partners, the Society aims to create lasting change in Nigeria’s humanitarian landscape.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Absa Faty Kane, International Ambassador of the Swiss Red Cross and Founding Member of Tiffany Circle West Africa, addressed the ripple effects of chronic poverty and loss of hope. She noted that poverty has driven many young people to take dangerous risks, including perilous journeys in search of better lives abroad. “We need to combine our efforts effectively and urgently to provide relief to communities affected by disasters and insecurity,” she added.
For media enquiries, please contact:Chima Nwankwo Head of Communications & Advocacy, Nigerian Red Cross Society Email: chima.nwankwo@redcrosnigeria.org
