The Ogun State Branch of the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) on Thursday, hosted a delegation from the China Red Cross Society in a move to enhance humanitarian collaboration and strengthen capacity-building efforts in the state.
The Chinese delegation, led by Commissioner Siang Liangjie from Zhejiang Province, included Mr. Jack Wang and Miss Xiao May.
They were received by the Ogun State Red Cross team, headed by Branch Chairman Dr. Ibrahim Jide Bello, alongside Vice Chairman Instructor Lookman Olatoye, Branch Secretary Mr. Ajayi Taye, Abeokuta Divisional Coordinator Pastor Gabriel Oyelami, and Branch Training Officer Instructor Adeniyi Akinmade.
The visit followed discussions between the Nigerian and Chinese governments in 2024, where humanitarian cooperation was identified as a priority.
The China Red Cross expressed its commitment to supporting the NRCS Ogun State Branch with material and technical assistance, provision of educational and training resources, donation of medical equipment, and modern disaster preparedness training.
While speaking, Commissioner Liangjie emphasized the China Red Cross Society’s dedication to providing impactful humanitarian aid, particularly in Ogere, where several Chinese companies operate.
“We are keen to support disaster response, healthcare interventions, and training programs that will directly benefit communities in Ogun State,” he said.
On his part, the Ologere of Ogere Kingdom, HRM Oba James Obafemi Saliu, who accompanied the delegation, commended the initiative and described the partnership as one that would ensure transparency, expediency, and accountability in humanitarian interventions.
Dr. Bello, in his remarks, appreciated the China Red Cross Society’s willingness to collaborate and outlined the Ogun State Red Cross’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, including support for displaced persons, response to disease outbreaks such as Mpox and cholera, and disaster relief operations.
He emphasized that additional support from the China Red Cross would significantly expand the impact of these interventions.
The NRCS Ogun State Branch Chairman also made a formal appeal for assistance in securing a permanent office space, as the branch currently operates from a rented facility.
He further requested a utility vehicle and ambulances to enhance emergency response operations. “With improved resources, we can better serve communities in need and respond swiftly to emergencies,” he stated.
