The Ologere of Ogere town in Ogun State, Oba James Obafemi Saliu has facilitated a partnership between the Ogun State branch of the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) and China Red Cross Society in a move to enhance humanitarian collaboration and strengthen capacity-building efforts in the state.
The traditional ruler made this happened at a meeting between the two humanitarian organisations held at the Ogun State headquarters of the Red Cross in Abeokuta, describing the partnership as one that would ensure transparency, expediency, and accountability in humanitarian interventions.
Saliu commended the delegation, which included Commissioner Siang Liangjie from Zhejiang Province, Mr. Jack Wang and Miss Xiao May, to the meeting hosted by leadership of the Nigerian Red Cross describing the initiative, as positive development and stressed that it will further strengthen capacity-building
The Chairman of the state chapter Dr. Ibrahim Jide Bello received the delegation in company of the Vice Chairman, Mr. Lookman Olatoye; Secretary, Mr. Ajayi Taye; Abeokuta Divisional Coordinator. Pastor Gabriel Oyelami; Branch Training Officer Instructor. Adeniyi Akinmade; and Princess Adeolu Ibukunoluwa.
The China Red Cross Society expressed desire to support the host humanitarian organisation with material and technical assistance, provision of educational and training resources, donation of medical equipment, and modern disaster preparedness training.
The Chinese team leader emphasised the China Red Cross Society’s dedication to providing impactful humanitarian aid, particularly in Ogere town, where several Chinese companies operate.
Liangjie stated that the society was keen to support disaster response, healthcare interventions, and training programs that will directly benefit communities in Ogun State.
The Chairman of the dtate chapter expressed appreciation to the China Red Cross Society’s willingness to collaborate and outlined his chapter’s ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Bello said that that these include support for displaced persons, response to disease outbreaks such as monkeypox and cholera, as well as disaster relief operations.
He equally emphasised that additional support from the China Red Cross would significantly expand the impact of these interventions.
He appealed for assistance in securing a permanent office space, explaining that the branch is currently operates from a rented facility, adding that the chapter will also need a utility vehicle and ambulances to enhance emergency response operations.
The branch chairman explained that, with improved resources, the state chapter of the society can better serve communities in need and respond swiftly to emergencies.
Oba Saliu commended the initiative, describing the partnership as one that would ensure transparency, expediency, and accountability in humanitarian interventions.
The visit is a follow up discussion between the Nigerian and Chinese governments, which started in 2024, where humanitarian cooperation was identified as a priority
