In a bid to address the growing food insecurity crisis in Nigeria, the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has launched an emergency appeal to raise N2.5 billion.
In a statement signed by its Communications and Advocacy Coordinator, Chima Nwankwo, on Sunday, NRCS said it launched the fundraising campaign with the support of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
The statement noted that the initiative, themed “Keeping Humanity Alive,” aims to provide critical support to vulnerable people across the country, focusing on improving livelihoods, health, nutrition, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in severely affected regions.
Projection of hunger
The NRCS, citing a report, said more than 31.5 million Nigerians are projected to face food insecurity by October 2024.
The organization said: “According to widely circulated reports, unless emergency measures are activated and implemented, more than 31.5 million Nigerians will face food insecurity between January and October 2024. Factors such as conflict, inflation and economic challenges are worsening the situation.
“Other research shows that by October 2024, prices of staple foods such as cereals will have at least tripled, based on relative market indices. The Famine Early Warning System reports that between September 2023 and now, severe acute malnutrition among children has increased by at least 70%,” he said.
It was further revealed that these research projections have indicated the need for increased support to help those in need in the coming months.
Article page with promotion of financial support
Gala night
Meanwhile, the organisation said that to address this pressing issue, it will be organising its first annual fundraising gala night on September 28 at 6:00 pm at the Victoria Island Civic Centre, Lagos.
The gala evening will bring together a network of 200 influential partners from diverse backgrounds spanning business, civil society, politics, entertainment and media, and guests will be invited to participate in an exciting raffle and pledge donations through designated cards, contributing to the vital cause of combating food insecurity in Nigeria.
NRCS believes that by supporting the appeal, individuals and organisations can help mitigate the devastating impact of food insecurity and malnutrition on communities, ensuring those most in need receive critical assistance and support, saying that such a contribution can make a tangible difference in the lives of millions of Nigerians.
NRCS Chairman Oluyemisi Adeaga called for collective efforts to impact the lives of the vulnerable.
He said: “We are excited to bring together leaders and influencers from diverse sectors for an unforgettable evening dedicated to making a real difference. Funds raised will go directly towards our ongoing efforts to alleviate hunger and improve water and sanitation conditions for vulnerable communities.”