The Nigerian Red Cross Society, NRCS, has restated its commitment to serve humanity better, despite the numerous challenges the organisation is facing.
The President of the Society, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga announced the Organisation’s commitment at the Quarterly National Governing Board Meeting, in Abuja, Nigeria.
Prince Adeaga explained that though the Red Cross had prepared for eventualities in 2025, it was beset by many more disasters like insecurity.
“We are in a state of serious humanitarian challenge that’s multiplying by numbers everyday, meanwhile our resources for performing our basic functions are dwindling”.
According to him,the Red Cross Society has not been more challenged than now.
He, therefore called on the Governing Board Members to think outside the box and come up with ways of getting more resources.
“It is a time that calls for more serious dedication for all of us that are volunteers for the sake of humanity”.
Service to Humanity
The Head of delegation, International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, Doris El Doueihy said despite the growing humanitarian needs and unfortunate cut in funding, the Nigerian Red Cross has continued to render services to those most affected especially in war torn zones.
She therefore pledged the support of the ICRC to position the Nigerian Red Cross to be a reference to other humanitarian agencies.
“I’m just coming back from a one week visit to Maiduguri. It is always amazing to see the great work that the Nigerian Red Cross Society Volunteers are doing on the ground”.
Representing the International Federation of Red Cross, IFRC, the Programme Coordinator, Gloria Kunyenga, said to be able to reach the people in need of humanitarian assistance, proper coordination and deliberation are the only way out.
She also reiterated that the IFCR appreciates its partnership with the Nigerian Red Cross Society.
“As an International Federation, we will continue coordinating with the rest of the partners to supporting the Nigerian Red Cross even in the coming year. We will be there and we’ll be able to continue to support the Nigerian Red Cross “
For his part, the Country Manager of the Norwegian Red Cross in Nigeria, Morris Monson, declared that his organization is pleased to continue supporting the NRCS in humanitarian interventions across Nigeria.
“No matter what type of modality that would be used, the message I bring is that the Norwegian Red Cross is still committed to staying in Nigeria and working with the Nigerian Red Cross to reach the vulnerable population looking at the huge humanitarian need now evolving due to the security situations across the country “.
Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality are the 7 fundamental principles that guide the activities of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Society, globally.
These principles are enshrined to ensure consistent ethical assistance during conflicts, disasters and other emergencies.