Isa, at a validation workshop for the Nigerian Red Cross Society’s, NRCS, 2026–2027 Unified Plan on disaster response said:
“Health, well-being, and access to quality healthcare remain a priority for President Tinubu.
“This plan must include climate adaptation strategies, early warning systems, and community-based responses that are disability-inclusive”.
He emphasized the need for an inclusive and participatory plan that reflected the voices of all stakeholders, especially vulnerable populations.
Isa noted that during disasters and conflict, PWDs often faced barriers in evacuation, relief distribution, and recovery, calling for their full integration in disaster preparedness protocols.
President of NRCS, Mr. Oluyemisi Adeaga said the meeting aimed to harmonize a national response strategy for disasters and humanitarian crises.
Represented by Hajia Ummul-Mohammed Mustapha, NRCS National Programme Planning Advisor, Adeaga noted that the plan also addressed climate change, health, migration, and displacement, with the goal of alleviating human suffering in communities.
He urged stakeholders to actively engage and help shape a robust and effective humanitarian roadmap.
Mr Kersten Voigt, Country Representative of the British Red Cross, highlighted the growing impact of climate change and conflict in Nigeria, describing the country as highly vulnerable to both natural and man-made disasters.
He stressed the need to adapt to climate change while coping with global funding cuts and increased humanitarian demands.
“We need to be strategic and efficient, delivering greater impact with fewer resources.
“That’s part of what this workshop is designed to address,” Voigt said.
He also noted that the NRCS, as an auxiliary to the government, played a critical role in frontline response through its extensive volunteer network.
NAN
