The Nigerian Red Cross Society intends to raise N2.5b to avert the effects of severe hunger and malnutrition in Nigeria.

According to widely circulated reports, unless emergency steps are activated and implemented, over 31.5 million Nigerians will face food insecurity between January and October 2024. Factors such as conflict, inflation, and economic challenges are worsening the situation.

More research shows that by October 2024, prices of staple foods like grains will have at least tripled according to relative market indices. The Famine Early Warning System reports that between September 2023 and now, Severe Acute Malnutrition among children has increased by at least 70%.Indications from further research has shown that the need for increased support from other partners, organizations and individuals is most urgent now.

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has launched an Emergency Appeal to assist the most vulnerable persons across Nigeria over the next 18 months. The sum targeted is N2.5b. The appeal focuses on enhancing livelihoods, health, nutrition, and WASH services in the most affected regions. It is anticipated that the combination of ongoing conflict, economic instability, and high food prices will continue to drive food insecurity and malnutrition challenges through 2024.

To stave off this prospect, the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) is set to host its first-ever Annual Fundraising Gala Night at 6:00 pm on Saturday, the 28thof September 2024, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

This event whose theme is, ?Keeping Humanity Alive,? aims to raise N2.5 billion to support the Hunger Crisis Appeal and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs across Nigeria.

Attendees, including our 200 partners from business, civil society, politics, entertainment, and media. We will also have the opportunity to participate in a tombola and pledge support through donation cards.

According to the President of the NRCS, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, ?We are excited to bring together leaders and influencers from diverse sectors for an unforgettable night dedicated to making a real difference. The funds raised will go directly towards our ongoing efforts to alleviate hunger and improve water and sanitation conditions for vulnerable communities.?

Corporate sponsors from the financial, insurance, food and beverage, telecom, and hospitality sectors have been invited to support the event, including Guaranty Trust Holding Company PLC. These partners will ensure that all proceeds from the Gala Night go directly to the Hunger Crisis Appeal and WASH rehabilitation projects, making a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

?We call on our partners and the public to join us in this noble cause. In fact, right now, we need more partners and donors, so any individual or organization that wants to contribute should do so at:

https://www.redcrossnigeria.org/nigeria-hunger-crisis-appeal.

?Your participation and contributions will play a critical role in supporting the resilience of communities across Nigeria facing severe hardship.?

Established by Nigeria?s Parliament in 1960 and recognized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1961, the Nigerian Red Cross Society has been a cornerstone of humanitarian response in Nigeria. With a vast network of volunteers, the NRCS provides essential services including disaster relief, health education, and emergency response. As Nigeria continues to grapple with severe food insecurity, exacerbated by economic challenges and conflict, this Gala Night will serve as a critical platform to galvanize support for those in dire need.