Nigerian Red Cross seeks local support as funding crisis worsens

• Adeaga lamented USAID’s funding withdrawal, stressing its impact on NRCS and the need for alternative financial support sources.
• He acknowledged donor cuts as challenges but viewed them as opportunities for Nigerian humanitarian organisations to become more self-reliant.

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has stated that urgent local backing is necessary due to a significant financial shortfall affecting its operations nationwide.

Oluyemisi Adeaga, the NRCS president, made this remark during a courtesy visit to Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ile-Ife, to seek support.

On March 7, Adeaga voiced concerns over the withdrawal of funding by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which previously supported humanitarian efforts.

He noted that while donor funding reductions present obstacles, they also open doors for Nigerian humanitarian groups to explore alternative means of sustaining their activities.

In a statement released by Chima Nwankwo, the coordinator for communications and advocacy, Adeaga highlighted the NRCS’s reliance on foreign assistance due to inadequate government funding.

“We survive largely through international assistance because the three tiers of government have stopped supporting us,” Adeaga said.

“We are here to seek your collaboration and ask that you connect us with individuals and government bodies that can support our work.”

The Ooni of Ile-Ife, while receiving the delegation, reaffirmed his unwavering support for the NRCS, acknowledged its crucial humanitarian role, and urged greater public participation.

“Technology has revolutionized humanitarian services. Stop acting like you are in 1950,” the Ooni said.

“You must engage the public on what you are doing. Without proper communication, the Nigerian Red Cross Society will suffer.”

Ogunwusi stressed that without effective communication, the NRCS might struggle, urging it to use digital tools and partnerships to boost outreach.

Additionally, he emphasised the necessity of accountability and advised the NRCS to maintain transparency in its operations to foster public trust.