Nigerian Red Cross Sounds Alarm On Hunger Crisis, Calls For Urgent Action.
By Caroline Ameh
The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has issued a stark warning, declaring the country’s hunger crisis as reaching alarming levels and demanding immediate attention. Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Kende, Secretary General of the NRCS, made the declaration during a press conference held in Abuja yesterday.
Dr. Kende expressed deep concern over the escalating food insecurity gripping the nation, citing factors such as hyperinflation driven by rising fuel prices, which have pushed food prices beyond the reach of many Nigerians. He revealed that approximately 26.5 million Nigerians, including women and children, are currently facing acute hunger and are in desperate need of urgent assistance to prevent further suffering and fatalities.
The announcement comes amidst widespread protests against food shortages and the soaring cost of living, with demonstrations spreading to cities like Ibadan, where protesters defied police warnings to demand action from the government.
Speaking at the launch of a partnership between the Red Cross and Ecobank aimed at mobilizing local resources for the hunger crisis appeal, Dr. Kende emphasized the dire situation faced by vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. He revealed that nearly 4.41 million children and 585,000 mothers are facing acute malnutrition, with approximately 1,000 Nigerian children dying daily from malnutrition-related causes.
Highlighting the multifaceted nature of the crisis, Dr. Kende pointed to factors including changing weather conditions, increased internal conflicts, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed the need for urgent action, stating, “The time to act is now.”
The partnership with Ecobank aims to raise funds locally to support the hunger crisis appeal and provide essential relief to those affected. Dr. Kende outlined the initiatives that will be undertaken, including providing multipurpose cash grants for emergency relief and recovery, nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives to reduce the prevalence of diseases.
In closing, Dr. Kende called upon individuals, businesses, and organizations to join hands in supporting government efforts to address the crisis. He highlighted the critical role that corporate entities like Ecobank Nigeria can play in contributing to the welfare of the nation.
The Nigerian Red Cross, in collaboration with partners and volunteers spread across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, stands ready to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of communities most impacted by acute hunger.
