Red Cross seeks collaboration on humanitarian response in Kogi

Richard Elesho

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, NRCS, Kogi State branch has sought the collaboration of governments, public office holders, and well-meaning individuals in the state in advancing its operational objectives on meeting the needs of vulnerable groups, health emergencies, and disaster management.

The state chairman of NRCS Comrade Benjamin Ajodo made the appeal in Lokoja on Tuesday at the investiture of new honorary members of the group.

The new members included the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf; the Head of Service, Barrister Faridat Yusuf Musa; the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on Media, Ismaila Isah; and the Executive Secretary of the Kogi Sta Health Insurance Agency, Dr. David Adekunle Aledare.

“We are gathered here not merely for a ceremony but for a fortification of our mission. In a world, and indeed a nation, frequently tested by disasters, health crises, and economic shifts, the Nigerian Red Cross Society remains the first line of defence for vulnerable communities” Ajodo said.

He noted that the Society was deliberately expanding its “Circle of Humanity” by bringing respected leaders on board to champion humanitarian causes and mobilise greater support for vulnerable citizens.

“Your investiture today is a recognition of past integrity and, most importantly, a call to future action. By accepting this honorary membership, you are not just receiving a certificate; you are donning a mantle of neutrality, impartiality, and voluntary service.

“The Red Cross cannot do it alone. The synergy we celebrate today between the Society and the leaders of our state is the engine that will drive our humanitarian goals to every corner of Kogi State—from Lokoja to Okene, from Idah to Kabba.”

The Branch Chairman used the event to appeal to the Kogi State Government and development partners to help strengthen the operational capacity of the Society through the provision of a befitting state headquarters, a fully equipped ambulance and an annual subvention to support emergency operations, volunteer training and community outreach, assuring that every assistance will be managed prudently.

“Wear the Red Cross emblem with pride and responsibility. Let it remind you that wherever there is a human being in need, there is an opportunity for us to demonstrate the best of our collective humanity.”

Responding on behalf of the others, the Head of Service, Barrister Faridat Yusuf Musa, thanked the NRCS for the recognition and pledged the unwavering support of the awardees toward advancing the organisation’s humanitarian vision.