The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has issued a dire warning regarding the deepening hunger crisis in Nigeria, urging immediate action to address the escalating situation. Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Kende, Secretary General of the NRCS, delivered the stark message during a press briefing held in Abuja yesterday.
Dr. Kende expressed grave concern over the worsening food insecurity gripping the nation, attributing it to factors such as hyperinflation fueled by surging fuel prices. He revealed that an estimated 26.5 million Nigerians, including vulnerable groups such as women and children, are currently grappling with acute hunger and require urgent assistance to avert further suffering and loss of life.
The announcement comes amidst mounting protests against food shortages and soaring living costs, with demonstrations spreading to cities like Ibadan, where protesters defied police warnings to demand action from the government.
At the launch of a partnership between the Red Cross and Ecobank aimed at mobilizing local resources for the hunger crisis appeal, Dr. Kende underscored the precarious situation faced by vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. He disclosed alarming statistics, revealing that nearly 4.41 million children and 585,000 mothers are confronting acute malnutrition, with approximately 1,000 Nigerian children succumbing to malnutrition-related causes daily.
Dr. Kende emphasized the multifaceted nature of the crisis, citing factors such as changing weather patterns, heightened internal conflicts, and the enduring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Urging swift action, he stated, “The time to act is now.”
The partnership with Ecobank aims to mobilize funds locally to support the hunger crisis appeal and deliver essential relief to affected communities. Dr. Kende outlined various initiatives, including the provision of multipurpose cash grants for emergency relief and recovery, nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions to mitigate disease prevalence.
In conclusion, Dr. Kende called upon individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite in supporting government efforts to address the crisis. He underscored the pivotal role that corporate entities like Ecobank Nigeria can play in contributing to the nation’s welfare.
The Nigerian Red Cross, in collaboration with partners and volunteers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, stands poised to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of communities hardest hit by acute hunger.
