As part of activities marking World Red Cross Day, the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance and promoting the welfare of citizens across the country.
Speaking during a blood donation drive held in Abuja, the NRCS Director of Programmes, Mr. Manir Jega, highlighted the importance of voluntary blood donation as a life-saving initiative, particularly in emergency situations. He described Nigeria as a country facing both natural and man-made humanitarian challenges, and emphasized that regular blood donation is one of the effective ways volunteers contribute to saving lives.
“We have been offering humanitarian support for years, especially in conflict-affected regions like the North East, and we will continue to do so in our mission to save humanity,” Jega said.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Ameen Abdul, a board member representing the African region in the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), stated that the NRCS is actively supporting the Nigerian government in disaster response and risk reduction efforts. He called for collective action from all Nigerians to strengthen these efforts.
The Head of Communications at NRCS, Mr. Chima Nwankwo, praised the ongoing contributions of the organization and encouraged media partners to support public awareness efforts aimed at enhancing community resilience and well-being.
Volunteers at the event, including Mrs. Princess Nnochinionye and Mr. Peace Anenih, described blood donation as a meaningful way to help others. They urged Nigerians, particularly the youth, to donate blood at least once every three months. “Donating blood not only helps others, it gives me a deep sense of fulfillment,” Mrs. Nnochinionye shared.
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed every May 8th to celebrate the global humanitarian movement’s work in protecting lives, promoting health, and alleviating human suffering.