By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has praised the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRC) for its dedication and effective partnership in disaster management and humanitarian efforts across Nigeria.
Director, Disaster Management,
Nigerian Red Cross , Abuja.
Alozie Amechi, ECOWAS Programme Officer for Humanitarian and Social Affairs in Abuja, made this statement to journalists at the conclusion of a five-day capacity-building workshop organized by the NRC in Lokoja, Kogi State. The workshop was tailored for key stakeholders involved in disaster response and management in Nigeria.
Amechi commended the organization and execution of the workshop, noting that it addressed crucial practical areas necessary for effective humanitarian work in the field.
“This capacity-building workshop has been incredibly well-organized. The chosen themes are not only timely but essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work. It equips officers with the insights they need to address community needs effectively,” he said.
He also praised the NRC for carefully selecting experienced facilitators for the workshop, ensuring participants gained valuable knowledge and skills for improving disaster response.
“The choice of thematic areas and the experienced facilitators reflect the NRC’s commitment, which we value greatly,” he added.
Highlighting the collaboration between ECOWAS and Nigerian agencies, Amechi explained that ECOWAS works closely with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and the NRC to ensure smooth information flow and coordination throughout humanitarian projects.
“We have established monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, allowing us to stay updated on every step taken by our implementing partners. This ensures that assistance reaches those in need and has a meaningful impact,” he said.
Reflecting on the longstanding partnership between ECOWAS and the NRC, Amechi noted that the NRC has consistently shown a willingness to adapt and improve based on ECOWAS’s guidelines. While challenges occasionally arise, he said, the NRC strives to enhance its programs, demonstrating continuous progress.
According to him, the NRC has also been diligent in conducting transparent feasibility assessments, aligning with ECOWAS standards and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to accountability in humanitarian projects.
Amechi highlighted a shift within ECOWAS from a “community of states” to a “community of people,” emphasizing the commission’s commitment to directly addressing the needs of those most affected by crises.
“Our focus is on reaching those who need assistance most, and in this regard, the Nigerian Red Cross has proven to be a reliable partner,” he affirmed.
He recalled that in the past, member states did not fully understand ECOWAS’s role, but through renewed efforts and thorough feasibility studies, they now recognize the organization’s shift towards a people-centered and humanitarian approach.
“We are committed to touching the lives of those in need, and we believe the NRC is doing a commendable job in this respect,” he stated.
Our correspondent gathered that the NRC’s involvement reflects its strong network and commitment to expanding disaster response capacity across Nigeria, with ECOWAS’s ongoing investment in effective humanitarian assistance.
Several NRC branch secretaries, including Ojo Olaleye from Oyo State and Kingsley Nonso Okoye from Anambra State, described the workshop as highly beneficial. They pledged to apply the knowledge gained to improve disaster response in their respective states and to train their teams accordingly.
Highlight at the occasion was the issuance of certificates to 60 participants,drawn from six states of the federation, including kogi, Anambra,Adamawa among others.
