IFRC Appeals For Funds To Alleviate Hunger In Nigeria

By Oduyemi Odumade

In response to the escalating hunger crisis gripping some parts of the country, the International Federation of Red Cross, IFRC, has initiated an emergency appeal to raise 27 million Swiss Franc in support of the Nigerian Red Cross Society’s efforts to alleviate the hunger crisis in Nigeria.

The head of the IFRC delegation Abuja Clusters, Bhupinder Tomar who stated this during a media chat in Abuja said the aid is expected to benefit approximately 1,092,300 people across the country in the form of cash assistance, food and nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene.

He emphasized the urgency to assist those uncertain about their next meal.

President of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Oluyemisi Adeaga expressed concern about the escalating number of people experiencing food insecurity and emphasized the implications for the country’s peace and stability.

He noted that the hunger crisis in Nigeria has been exacerbated by a combination of factors including prolonged conflicts and climate change among others.

“We call on all compassionate individuals and organizations to join the Nigerian Red Cross Society’s efforts in bringing relief to the most vulnerable members of our society, who now face the indignity of not knowing where their next meal will come from,” he appealed.

Mr Adeaga also revealed that globally, approximately 828 million people, that is about 10 percent of the world’s population, go to bed hungry each day.

“In Nigeria alone, about 25 million people, predominantly women and children, are at risk of severe hunger and malnutrition.

“Recognizing the gravity of the situation, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on food insecurity and ordered the immediate release of fertilizers and grains to farmers.

“He also expanded the National Security Council’s purview to include matters relating to food and water availability and affordability as essential livelihood items.

Also speaking the Senior Communication officer, of Africa Hunger Crisis Appeal, Anne Wanjiru who expressed Concern that 22 countries in the Sahel region of Africa are facing severe hunger urged the countries to bridge the response gap through life-saving interventions.

The Organizations also believed that collaborating with the media would galvanize widespread support and mobilize resources to address the hunger crisis in Nigeria.

Edited By Grace Namij