The International Federation of Red Cross initiated an emergency appeal on Monday to raise CHF 27 million (equivalent to N23 billion) to support the Nigerian Red Cross Society in addressing the hunger crisis in Nigeria.
The appeal aims to aid a total of 1,092,300 individuals impacted by the crisis.
Bhupinder Tomar, the head of the delegation for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, revealed this information during a media briefing in Abuja.
Hunger crisis in Nigeria
He highlighted that Nigeria is currently confronting an unparalleled hunger crisis this year. Tomar commended President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency regarding food insecurity.
Tomar stated, “Nigeria is facing an unprecedented hunger crisis this year. We are glad that the government of Nigeria has recognized the crisis, and the President has declared a state of emergency.”
The appeal’s goal is to gather CHF 27 million to provide assistance to those affected by the hunger crisis, delivering cash assistance, food and nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene to 1,092,300 people.
Oluyemisi Adeaga, the President of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, emphasized the growing number of people experiencing food insecurity and its potential threat to the country’s peace and stability.
He stressed that, like any other great nation, Nigeria must prioritize the food needs of its citizens.
Addressing hunger is not just a matter of dignity but also an issue of urgent national security.
Adeaga called upon individuals and organizations to join the efforts of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in providing relief to some of the most vulnerable members of society who are currently grappling with the indignity of not knowing where their next meal will come from.