The Ogun State chapter of the Nigerian Red Cross Society on Thursday marked the 2025 World Red Cross Day by announcing the disbursement of over N38 million in aid to flood victims in two local government areas in the state.
This effort aims to provide relief and remind Nigerians of the enduring need for compassion in the face of rising national crises.
During a commemorative gathering at the Valley View Auditorium in Isale Igbehin, Abeokuta, Dr. Ibrahim Jide Bello, the State Chairman of the Red Cross, disclosed that the intervention supported 500 households in the Obafemi Owode and Ogun Waterside local government areas. Through the IFRC-Sponsored Flood Appeal Project, each household received N77,000, totaling N38.5 million in direct cash assistance.
“These initiatives are not for self-glory,” Dr. Bello emphasized. “Rather, they reflect our ongoing commitment to humanity and the values we hold dear as an organization.”
He underscored that the theme of this year’s observance, “On the Side of Humanity,” is a timely call for Nigerians to rediscover the essence of empathy and the sanctity of human life—especially as the country grapples with increasing violence, kidnappings, and other humanitarian crises.
Honoring the legacy of Sir Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross, Dr. Bello called for a renewed dedication to the fundamental principles of neutrality, impartiality, and voluntary service.
He also mentioned several of the Red Cross branch’s recent activities, including vulnerability assessments in flood-prone areas, first aid training, disaster preparedness workshops, and a public health campaign aimed at combating Mpox in collaboration with the state Ministry of Health.
In his keynote address, Dr. Chris Omotosho, a Red Cross Advocate and lecturer at the Department of Theatre Arts, Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for helping those in need, stressing that there is a growing tendency to normalize suffering in the country.
“There are victims with visible and invisible wounds all around us,” Dr. Omotosho stated. “They are not only in IDP camps or conflict zones; they are our neighbors, emotionally broken and neglected. Humanity is not just a slogan—it is a moral obligation.”
The event included religious thanksgiving, awareness walks, first aid demonstrations, and awards, with government officials, Red Cross volunteers, and other stakeholders in attendance.
In conclusion, Dr. Bello called for all citizens to actively engage in supporting humanitarian causes, stating, “Let us all consciously contribute to causes that promote humanity. The time to act is now.”
