Nigerian Red Cross Raises Alarm as Hunger Crisis Reaches Critical Levels

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has sounded the alarm on the deepening hunger crisis in Nigeria, calling for urgent action to address the unfolding humanitarian emergency.

Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Kende, Secretary General of the NRCS, delivered a stark warning during a press conference held in Abuja yesterday.

Expressing profound concern over the escalating food insecurity gripping the nation, Dr.

Kende cited factors such as hyperinflation driven by skyrocketing fuel prices, which have pushed food costs beyond the means of many Nigerians.

He disclosed that approximately 26.5 million Nigerians, including women and children, are currently facing acute hunger and are in desperate need of immediate assistance to prevent further suffering and loss of life.

The declaration comes amid 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 decisive action from the government.

During the launch of a partnership between the Red Cross and Ecobank aimed at mobilizing local resources for the hunger crisis appeal, Dr. Kende underscored the dire situation confronting vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.

Shocking statistics were revealed, indicating that nearly 4.41 million children and 585,000 mothers are grappling with acute malnutrition, with approximately 1,000 Nigerian children perishing daily from malnutrition-related causes.

Dr. Kende highlighted the complex nature of the crisis, pointing to factors including shifting weather patterns, escalating internal conflicts, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stressing the need for immediate action, he emphasized, “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 affected communities. Dr. Kende outlined a range of initiatives, including the distribution of multipurpose cash grants for emergency relief and recovery, nutritional assistance for pregnant and lactating mothers, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions to mitigate disease outbreaks.

In conclusion, Dr. Kende called upon individuals, businesses, and organizations to join forces in supporting government efforts to address the crisis. He emphasized the crucial role that corporate entities like Ecobank Nigeria can play in contributing to the nation’s welfare.

The Nigerian Red Cross, in collaboration with partners and volunteers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, stands ready to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of communities hardest hit by acute hunger.