By Adamu IMAM, Bauchi
NRCS: Engaged Stakeholders, Strengthen Collaborations in Bauchi
By Adamu IMAM Bauchi
The Nigeria Red Cross Society Bauchi Branch has engaged stakeholders to strengthen collaborations in the state.
As part of its efforts to reduce casualties during disasters or natural calamities, the NRCS Bauchi Branch encouraged stakeholders to understand the seven fundamental principles guiding their roles as humanitarian aid service providers, with emphasis on impartiality.
The State Executive Chairman of the NRCS Bauchi Branch, Alhaji Aminu Abubakar, stated that they are mandated to serve as an auxiliary, independent body to support government efforts and collaborate in emergency situations and humanitarian assistance within communities.
He added that they are complementing government efforts and mobilizing financial support from various sources to carry out their functions, as stipulated in their seven fundamental principles, all aimed at bringing support to the communities.
Abubakar said, "We are here to educate our stakeholders, and they would now understand our roles and see how they can help us." With over 5,000 volunteers in each local government area, he urged stakeholders to utilize them effectively. He mentioned that during the recent water flood disaster, it was the volunteers who went around, particularly in local governments, to provide support.
The Chairman highlighted the NRCS's collaborative efforts, saying, "We organized school clubs to catch them young and collaborate with the education and women affairs ministries. We also visit hospitals during antenatal clinics to educate women on pregnancy-related programs and go to communities for environmental sanitation and house-to-house inspections, advising households on water and sanitation."
During the workshop, presenters highlighted the activities of the Red Cross as an impartial organization that emphasizes universality and independence.
Other participants expressed confidence in the initiative, describing it as timely, considering the disasters that usually occur without prior notice in various communities.
Tags:
COLLABORATION