Red Cross calls for increased assistance as humanitarian needs grow

The Nigerian Red Cross Society’s Anambra State branch has called for greater assistance from government, corporate entities and the public to meet expanding humanitarian challenges and a decline in funding for relief work.

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

Addressing the theme “United in humanity,” Prof. Charity Emelie, chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Anambra State, said the organisation continues to serve as a first responder during emergencies, disasters and public‑health crises throughout the state.

Emelie explained that the branch has bolstered its emergency‑response capacity by training volunteers and equipping a Branch Rapid Response Team to handle disasters and medical emergencies efficiently.

She noted that, during the Anambra State governorship election, the society deployed 215 members of its Emergency First Aid Team, together with 465 trained first aiders and three operational vehicles across the state.

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

Emelie said the organisation has also broadened humanitarian assistance through partnerships with regional and international agencies.

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.

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.”

She added that humanitarian challenges are rising at an “astronomical” rate while funding is diminishing.

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

“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.”

Emelie praised Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, for their contributions to the Red Cross Society and urged continued support.

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

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.