By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Nigerian Red Cross Society is set to raise the sum of N2.5 billion to support 31.5 million people who are at risk of suffering severe hunger and malnutrition by October 2024.

The fundraising Gala Event is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024, under the theme; “Keeping Humanity Alive,” to be held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos by 6pm. The Gala Night is expected to feature a gourmet dinner prepared by a celebrated chef, a performance by a renowned international artist, and a fashion show. Attendees, including 200 distinguished guests from business, civil society, politics, entertainment, and media, to participate and pledge support through donation cards.

President, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, disclosed this at a media briefing on Thursday, as part of humanitarian\development initiatives for the year 2024, held at the society’s Office in Makoko, Yaba, Mainland Local Government Area, Lagos State.

Adeaga, who was represented by the Lagos State Branch Chairman, Mrs. Adebola Kolawole, stressed that the aim of the intervention fund is to avert the effects of the severe Hunger Crisis Appeal and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, WASH, programs across Nigeria.
According to the president, “In just two days- Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Nigerian Red Cross Society will launch a fundraiser under the theme-Keeping Humanity Alive” Our goal is to raise 2.5 billion naira to support 31.5 million people who are at risk of suffering severe hunger and malnutrition by October 2024, unless something drastic is done NOW.

“The Nigerian Red Cross does not often come out to openly solicit for funds. Infact the last time we did this on this scale was when we needed to raise funds for returning World War 2 veterans in Nigeria.

“However, the needs are dire. The Famine Early Warning System has stated that due to a combination of factors- Conflict, Drought and Inflation, many people will suffer hunger this year. Last year, the figure of people at risk was 26.5 million.

“Now it is 31.5million. However, you must understand that last year, the major issue that prevented many from farming was the fear of conflict. However, this year, people are faced with drought and inflation in addition-so the figure of at risk people has spiked.

“As far as hunger is concerned, Nigeria is at a tipping point. Over 31.5 million people are at risk of severe hunger, driven by the impacts of conflict, climate change, displacement, and inflation.

“Among those most vulnerable are women and children. The statistics are alarming, but behind each figure lies a human story—of a mother struggling to feed her children, of communities facing acute shortages of clean water, and of children who face the sad prospect of malnutrition.

“This crisis demands a collective response from us all. We cannot stand by and watch as entire communities are pushed to the brink of survival, the magnitude, the sheer scale of the problem demands your help. That is why this fundraiser is so crucial.”

Adeaga assured that every naira donated would go directly toward providing food, clean water, and basic sanitation services—three essentials for survival.

She added that financial contributions are just one part of the equation. “We need to create lasting change by building resilience in affected communities, ensuring that no one is left behind. This fundraiser will not only support immediate relief efforts but also fund long-term. Sustainable programs designed to equip families and communities with the tools they need to recover, rebuild, and thrive.

“The more people who hear our call, the closer we get to our goal of alleviating suffering,and restoring dignity to millions of people. As we approach this event on Saturday, we ask that everyone—whether through donations, partnerships, or spreading awareness—joins us in Keeping Humanity Alive.”