Delegates from China Red Cross Society have visited the Ogun State Branch of the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) to deepen the collaboration and explore bilateral opportunities for humanitarian support as well as capacity development.
Receiving the China Red Cross delegation led by Commissioner Siang Liangjie, representing the Zhejiang Province, accompanied by Mr. Jack Wang and Miss Xiao May, recently, the Ogun State Branch Chairman of the Red Cross Society, Dr. Ibrahim Jide Bello said the visit was based on prior discussions between the Chinese and Nigerian governments in 2024, during which humanitarian collaboration was identified as a key area of focus.
He listed their efforts to include support for displaced persons, response to disease outbreaks (Mpox, cholera, and other health crises) as well as disaster relief efforts across the state.
Dr. Bello noted that with additional support from the China Red Cross, the impact of these interventions could be significantly expanded.
He also formally requested support for procurement of a permanent building for the NRCS Ogun State Branch, as the current office is a rented space and a utility vehicle and ambulances to improve mobility and emergency response operations.
He assured the China Red Cross that the Ogun State Branch would uphold the seven Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross Movement in all engagements.
Responding, Commissioner Siang Liangjie, pledged robust commitment to humanitarian support in Ogun State, particularly in Ogere, where several Chinese companies operate.
The Chinese delegation expressed interest in strengthening the Ogun State Red Cross Branch through material and technical support as well as provision of educational and training materials to enhance Red Cross activities in the state.
They pledged donation of medical equipment to support disaster response and healthcare interventions.
Also speaking, the Ologere of Ogere, Oba James Obafemi Saliu, who came with the Chinese team expressed appreciation for the visit adding that the visit would ensure transparency, expediency and accountability.
A member of the Chinese delegation, Miss Xiao May, advised the NRCS Ogun State Branch to formally document its needs on an official letterhead for submission to the China Red Cross Society.
On hand to receive the delegation were the Vice Chairman Instructor, Lookman Olatoye, Branch Secretary Mr. Ajayi Taye, Abeokuta Divisional Coordinator Pastor Gabriel Oyelami and the Branch Training Officer Instructor Adeniyi Akinmade.
