Feyisayo Ogunbiyi
As the world marks the 2025 World Red Cross Day on Thursday, the Ogun State Branch of the Nigerian Red Cross Society disclosed that it had disbursed over N38 million in humanitarian support to flood victims in two local government area of the state, calling on Nigerians to rise above self-interest and embrace compassion in the face of deepening national crises.
Speaking at a commemorative event held at the Valley View Auditorium, Isale Igbehin, Abeokuta, the state Chairman of the society, Dr. Ibrahim Jide Bello, said the intervention was part of a broader commitment to alleviate human suffering and uphold the principles of humanity amid rising threats to dignity and life.
According to him, the branch, under the IFRC-Sponsored Flood Appeal Project, supported 500 households in Obafemi Owode and Ogun Waterside Local Government Areas with direct cash assistance, disbursing N38.5 million, with each household receiving N77,000.
“These initiatives are not for self-glory but evidence of our alignment with the cause of humanity,” Bello said.
“This year’s theme, ‘On the Side of Humanity,’ is a call for Nigerians to rediscover empathy and the value of human life, particularly as irrational killings, kidnappings, and other inhumane acts become disturbingly commonplace.
World Red Cross Day, held annually on May 8 to honour the birth of Red Cross founder Sir Henry Dunant, was marked by a sober reflection on Nigeria’s humanitarian realities.
Bello described the day as sacred, urging a recommitment to the Red Cross’ core values of neutrality, impartiality, and voluntary service.
He outlined the branch’s recent interventions, including Enhanced Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment (EVCA) exercises in flood-prone areas, disaster preparedness workshops, first aid training, and a public health campaign against Mpox conducted in partnership with the state Ministry of Health.
In his keynote address, veteran humanitarian and Red Cross advocate, Dr. Chris Omotosho, called for more personal sacrifice in the service of humanity, warning against the normalization of suffering in Nigerian society.
“There are victims with visible and invisible wounds all around us,” Omotosho said.
“They are not just in IDP camps or conflict zones. They are our neighbours, emotionally broken and neglected. Humanity is not a slogan; it is a moral obligation.”
The celebration, which featured religious thanksgiving, awareness walks, first aid competitions, and award presentations, drew attendance from government officials, Red Cross volunteers, stakeholders, and members of the state executive.
Bello concluded by urging the public to support humanitarian efforts: “Let us all consciously support every cause that promotes humanity. The time to act is now.”
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