The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian diplomacy and deeper collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in advancing disaster response, community resilience and the protection of vulnerable populations across Nigeria….
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian diplomacy and deeper collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in advancing disaster response, community resilience and the protection of vulnerable populations across Nigeria.
The assurance was given by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, while receiving the Letters of Commission of the Head of Delegation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Ghulam Muhammed Awan, in Abuja.
According to a statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Thursday, July 2, the meeting provided an opportunity for both parties to reaffirm their longstanding partnership in humanitarian assistance, emergency response and community development.
The minister congratulated Dr. Awan on his appointment and expressed optimism that his tenure would further strengthen the federation’s engagement with Nigeria and the wider West African region.
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She also assured the IFRC of the ministry’s continued support in facilitating its humanitarian operations in the country.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended the contributions of the Nigerian Red Cross Society and the global Red Cross Movement, describing their humanitarian interventions in times of disasters, conflicts and disease outbreaks as invaluable.
According to the minister, the organisation has earned international respect through its commitment to humanitarian values.
“The Red Cross has, over generations, earned global respect through its commitment to humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and voluntary service.”
Reflecting on her personal experiences, she recalled the organisation’s longstanding humanitarian presence in communities across Nigeria, noting that its activities had inspired generations of young people to embrace volunteerism and service to vulnerable groups.
The minister also praised Red Cross volunteers for their dedication to delivering life-saving assistance under challenging conditions.
She said the organisation’s neutrality remains one of its greatest strengths, allowing it to provide assistance solely on the basis of need, regardless of political, ethnic or religious affiliations.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further expressed satisfaction that humanitarian workers and volunteers continue to enjoy the trust and cooperation of communities across Nigeria, thereby enhancing the delivery of relief interventions.
Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Awan thanked the minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed the IFRC’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s humanitarian response efforts.
He said the federation would continue strengthening community-based disaster preparedness and emergency response through its extensive volunteer network operating at national, state and community levels.
According to him, the organisation’s work is guided by internationally recognised humanitarian principles.
“The Federation’s effectiveness is built upon its internationally recognised humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence, which enable volunteers to assist all persons in need without discrimination.”
Awan also described Nigeria as a strategic country within the IFRC’s West and Central Africa operations, expressing confidence that collaboration with the Federal Government would continue to expand in disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, emergency preparedness, public health and humanitarian capacity development.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in promoting humanitarian action, protecting vulnerable communities and enhancing disaster preparedness and sustainable resilience across Nigeria and the West African region.