The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has committed itself to tackling food insecurity in the country, News About Nigeria reports.
The NRCS Coordinator of Communications and Advocacy, Chima Nwankwo, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, announcing its launch on an emergency appeal to assist the most vulnerable individuals across Nigeria over the next eighteen months.
He noted that it was achieved with the support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, adding that the aim of the appeal is to raise N2.5 billion, which will focus on enhancing livelihoods, health, nutrition, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services in the most affected regions.
To this effect, the NRCS will hold its first fundraising gala night in Lagos, themed “Keeping Humanity Alive.
The statement reads, “The Nigerian Red Cross Society intends to raise N2.5bn to mitigate the effects of severe hunger and malnutrition in Nigeria. According to widely circulated reports, unless emergency measures are activated and implemented, 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 shows 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 since September 2023, cases of severe acute malnutrition among children have increased by at least 70 percent. Indications from further research highlight the urgent need for increased support from partners, organisations, and individuals.
“The Nigerian Red Cross Society, with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, has launched an emergency appeal to assist the most vulnerable individuals across Nigeria over the next 18 months. The appeal, which targets N2.5bn, focuses on improving livelihoods, health, nutrition, and WASH services in the most affected regions. It is anticipated that the combination of ongoing conflict, economic instability, and high food prices will continue to drive food insecurity and malnutrition through 2024.
“To avert this scenario, the NRCS announced that it would host its first-ever Annual Fundraising Gala Night in Lagos, themed “Keeping Humanity Alive,” aimed at raising funds to support the hunger crisis appeal and WASH programmes across Nigeria.”
