Red Cross distributes customised ATMs, relief materials to Anambra flood victims

The Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Red Cross Society has distributed cash and relief materials to flood victims from three local government areas in the state affected by the 2024 flood disaster.

The Nigerian Tribune gathered that the distributed items included 25-litre gallons, buckets, Aqua tablets, and ATM cards preloaded with N77,000 each. Over 1,100 households across Ogbaru, Anambra West, and Ayamelum LGAs benefitted from the cash disbursement through these customised ATM cards.

The distribution exercise, which began on Saturday, December 14, and ended on Monday, December 16, 2024, covered communities in Ogbaru LGA such as Akiri, Ozuzu, Atani, and Ohita, where 410 registered households benefitted. In Anambra West LGA, communities like Umu Oba, Mmiata Anam, Iheora, and Umueze Anam saw 436 households benefit, while Ayamelum LGA covered communities including Igbakwu, Ifite Ogwaru, and Umueze, with 254 households receiving support.

The exercise was conducted in the presence of community leaders and president-generals of the various communities.

Speaking at one of the distribution centres in Atani, Ogbaru LGA headquarters, the Branch Executive Secretary of the Red Cross, Kingsley Okoye, said the cash and relief materials were provided to ease the financial burden on the flood victims and mitigate the effects of their losses.

Okoye noted that families and households who lost their livelihoods due to the flood disaster were comprehensively supported with relief materials to address both immediate needs and long-term recovery.

According to him, the initiative is a collaboration between the Nigerian Red Cross Society and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection, facilitated by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

He commended the Commission for its humanitarian efforts, adding that their commitment to life-saving interventions aligns seamlessly with the mission at the Nigerian Red Cross towards ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most, swiftly and effectively.

He said, “As we are painfully aware, the recent floods have devastated communities across Nigeria, displacing thousands and leaving many in urgent need of assistance. Families have lost their homes, and livelihoods have been swept away. In these trying times, the call for action is more urgent than ever.

“About 1,100 captured households would receive the ATM cards and other relief materials, including jerry cans and water purifying tablets, to help them purify their water, which was contaminated by the flood, and to also bring financial relief to the flood victims.

“This exercise is non-political and non-partisan. It is an intervention specifically for people and families affected by the 2024 flood disaster. Each of the customised ATM cards received by each captured household has been credited with N77,000.”

“As a partner, the Red Cross Society is uniquely equipped to respond to this crisis. Our reach extends to most remote and underserved communities, ensuring that no one is left behind. As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that every action we take is a step towards healing. We will ensure that our efforts are transparent, accountable, and inclusive by allowing the voices of the affected communities to guide our actions.

“We express our gratitude to ECHO and the IFRC for their unwavering support and trust in the Nigerian Red Cross Society. Together, we will not only address the immediate needs of those affected by the floods but also lay a foundation for long-term resilience. This intervention is expected to drive sustainable socio-economic recovery for the beneficiaries.”

The leaders and president-generals of the various communities who monitored the distribution commended the Red Cross for ensuring a seamless and transparent process.

The Chairman of Ogbaru Local Government Area, Sir Kenneth Akwuobi, represented by Esimai Nnamdi, Chairman of the Local Emergency Management Committee, thanked the society for providing succour and relief to the flood victims in the area.

“Everyone can see the excitement on the faces of the victims. This is certainly an exercise that has brought relief and comfort to them. We commend the Red Cross for ensuring that this distribution was carried out seamlessly. It stands out among others,” he added.

Some of the beneficiaries, including the elderly, identified as Pa Boniface Osakwe, Pa Ignatius Olisa, and Madam Margaret Okeke, also expressed their gratitude and excitement. They said they would use the money to revive their farming businesses, which were damaged by the flood disaster.

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