Red Cross appeals for local support amid funding challenges
MR OLUYEMISI ADEAGA, PRESIDENT NIGERIA RED CROSS SOCIETY (NRCS) PRESENTING A PLAQUE TO THE OONI OF IFE, OBA ADEYEYE ENITAN OGUNWUSI, OJAJA II ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH, 5,2025.
By Our Correspondent
The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has appealed for greater local support as it faces a severe funding crisis.
According to a statement issued by Mr Chima Nwankwo, Coordinator of Communications and Advocacy for the society, Mr Oluyemisi Adeaga, NRSC President made the appeal during a visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.
He said with sustained financial backing from Federal, State, and Local Governments reducing, the organisation had been left heavily reliant on foreign aid to carry out its vital humanitarian work.
“We survive largely through international assistance because the three tiers of government have stopped supporting us,” Adeaga said.
He said the visit was to seek the collaboration of the traditional ruler and to ask him to connect the NRCS with individuals and government bodies that could support its work.
He noted that the visit, held at the Ooni’s palace in Ile-Ife, highlighted the society’s commitment to fostering collaboration with key stakeholders in Nigeria.
According to him, the visit marked a significant step in strengthening partnerships and expanding the society’s humanitarian reach.
Adeaga emphasised the NRCS’s critical role in providing humanitarian aid across Nigeria and the urgent need for more local support.
“This partnership marks a pivotal moment in the society’s mission to enhance its impact and sustainability through strategic collaborations within Nigeria,” he said.
In response, the Ooni of Ife welcomed the NRCS delegation and reiterated his support for the organisation.
He acknowledged the indispensable role of the NRCS in disaster response and humanitarian efforts, but emphasised the need for improved public engagement.
“Technology has revolutionised humanitarian services. Stop acting like you are in 1950. You must engage the public on what you are doing,” the Ooni stated
He said without proper communication, the Nigerian Red Cross Society would face challenges.
The Ooni urged the NRCS to enhance its communication strategy by leveraging digital platforms and building partnerships with corporate organisations and NGOs to increase visibility, attract more stakeholders, and garner greater support.
The Ooni also stressed the importance of accountability, encouraging the NRCS to maintain transparency in all its operations.(https:newsatlarge.ng)