Red Cross calls for neutrality, impartiality in amplifying vulnerable voices

The Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS) has called for neutrality, impartiality, and independence in amplifying the voices of the vulnerable and marginalised in solidarity with those affected by conflict and disaster.

The President of the Nigeria Red Cross Society of Nigeria, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, said at the 2024 World Red Cross Day-Pre-Event Press Briefing in Abuja that, in the course of NRCS’s commitment, the organisation has witnessed the worst of brutality to humanity, but it has also seen the very best in human kindness.

According to the President, the theme of this year’s celebration is “Keeping Humanity Alive,” which resonated deeply as NRCS reflected on the countless lives touched, the hope restored, and the resilience empowered through our work.

He added: “In a world where crises and conflicts continue to unfold with overwhelming personal burdens, it is easy to feel apathetic against volunteering for humanity.

“Yet, we stand here today as a testament to the spirit of human capacity for compassion, kindness, and generosity. We are the messengers of hope, the beacons of light in the darkest moments.”

“In the course of our commitment, we have witnessed the worst of brutality to humanity, but we also have seen the very best in human kindness. Strangers have become united into a single family; great community efforts in resilience have been observed with individuals rising above adversity.”

“We’ve seen humanity in its most vulnerable, despairing, and yet resilient states. As we celebrate 2024 World Red Cross Day, we honour the unsung heroes, the volunteers, the staff, and the supporters who embody and imbibe the Red Cross spirit.

“We recognise the tireless efforts, the selfless acts, and the unwavering dedication to our shared visions.”

“Let us recommit ourselves to the principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Let us continue to stand in solidarity with those affected by conflict, disaster, and crisis. Let us amplify the voices of the vulnerable and marginalised.”

Adeaga also disclosed that currently, NRCS is actively engaged in the Diphtheria and, most recently, the Lassa Fever intervention in 6 states, as Lassa Fever is appearing for the first time in certain states and health workers and systems are overwhelmed as they don’t know how to deal with this novel disease, and these interventions would not be possible without the help of our donors.

“Humanity is alive and must be kept alive in each of us for the world to be in peace and harmony . It’s alive in every act of kindness, every gesture of empathy, and every effort to make a difference. Let us keep shining a light on the humanity that connects us all.” He added.

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