Red Cross Seeks Stronger Collaboration On Humanitarian Response

BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU

THE Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), Delta State, in collaboration with the British Red Cross, has organized a one-day humani­tarian diplomacy workshop to strengthen stakeholder col­laboration and enhance hu­manitarian intervention across the state.

The maiden workshop held in Asaba, brought together government representatives, traditional leaders, civil society and development partners in order to align efforts in reach­ing vulnerable communities more effectively.

In his remarks, the NRCS Delta State Chairman, Adolphus Anuagasi, represented by the Finance and Property Manage­ment Adviser, Mr. Friday Igba said the workshop focused on the fundamental humanitar­ian principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence, which are critical to building trust and ensuring the safety of aid workers, particularly in conflict or disaster zones.

He urged participants to take the training seriously, emphasizing that the knowl­edge shared would be essential when operating in high-risk or crisis-prone areas.

Also speaking, a representa­tive of the Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Obi Henry Kika­chukwu, the Obi of Ubulu-Unor commended the Red Cross for its relentless humanitarian work, particularly in under­served and grassroot commu­nities and called on all stake­holders to support the NRCS in its mission to safeguard lives and improve the well-being of vulnerable populations.

In his remarks, Delta State Commissioner for Environ­ment, Mr. Jamani Ejiro repre­sented by his Technical Assis­tant, Mr. Sylvester Ofuyekpone, noted that the ministry is cur­rently sensitizing residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to higher ground.

He disclosed that the state government has approved desilting operations and the opening of canals and natural waterways to minimize the impact of flooding.

The chairman of the event and National Finance and Prop­erty Management Adviser of NRCS, Mr. Edwin Ogidi-Gbeg­baje, emphasized the impor­tance of the training, reiterating that humanitarian workers must be equipped with the skills to operate with profes­sionalism, integrity and com­passion. “In every situation, the Red Cross must remain a symbol of hope and humanity”, he stated.

Delivering a keynote address, the branch Secretary and CEO of NRCS Delta State, Mr. Charles Arinomor, explained that the workshop was designed to foster synergy between the Red Cross and key partners, donors and stakeholders.

“Humanitarian diplomacy is about persuading stakeholders to support our programmes so we can reach the most vulner­able”, Arinomor said. “We don’t work in isolation. We collabo­rate with agencies, such as the Ministry of Health, SEMA and others to effectively respond to emergencies like flooding, disease outbreak and others.”

He highlighted NRCS’s ac­tive presence across the 25 local government areas of Delta State through a network of community-based volunteers who provide real-time assess­ment and frontline support.