The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has appealed for donations of $2.5 million to support flood victims in Borno State in northeastern Nigeria.
According to the society's president, Prince Adeaga, the donations are intended to provide shelter, food and livelihoods to 4,500 selected households.
This was according to a statement released on Tuesday by the organisation's communications and advocacy coordinator, Chima Nwankwo.
Mr Adeaga said: “We urgently need the support of individuals, organisations and the international community to help us reach those most in need. Every donation will make a difference and could save a life.”
Flood in Borno
Newslodgereported that the NRCS had deployed disaster response teams to Borno State to provide critical assistance to thousands of people affected by the devastating floods.
The flooding that occurred in early September left many people without access to basic needs such as clean water, food and shelter, displacing communities and destroying homes.
According to the statement, a team has been deployed to Maiduguri and is expected to be involved in “building temporary shelters, providing psychosocial support to flood-affected people in Damboa, Bayo, Jere and Maiduguri and helping people rebuild their livelihoods.”
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The organisation said the dire situation has left families struggling to survive.
“The situation on the ground is critical and many families are struggling to survive. In the wake of this disaster, the Nigerian Red Cross Society is on the front line, distributing emergency relief such as food, water and first aid, and providing temporary shelter to those who have lost their homes. However, the scale of the disaster far exceeds the resources currently available,” he said.
“Our teams are working tirelessly to respond to this emergency, but we cannot do it alone,” Adeaga said.
Addressing urgent needs
NRCS said many families are currently living in makeshift shelters or outdoors, exposed to the elements, adding that donations will help provide temporary housing and essential items such as blankets and clothing, ensuring vulnerable communities receive vital protection and support.
She further urged everyone to contribute to this vital cause. She urged those who wish to donate to do so through her official website or contact her fundraising team directly at info@redcrossnigeria.org.
“Every naira counts in this time of crisis. By coming together, we can provide the relief and hope these communities desperately need,” the statement reads in part.
