Nigerian Red Cross Society Kwara State Branch

03/05/2026

NRCS Kwara Branch Thanksgiving Service for The 2026 World Red Cross Day.

In a powerful expression of gratitude and unity, members of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kwara Branch, gathered in solemn joy at Mount Olives Anglican Church for the Day 3 Thanksgiving Service marking the 2026 World Red Cross Day celebration.

Held on Sunday, 3 May 2026, the sacred atmosphere of worship brought together volunteers and leaders in reflection of their humanitarian journey. The delegation was led by the Branch Communication Officer, Afolayan Taiye, who represented the Branch Secretary, Babaomo Ayodeji.

Speaking during the service, Afolayan emphasized that the Thanksgiving gathering forms a vital part of the World Red Cross Day activities, celebrated globally under the inspiring theme “United for Humanity.” He highlighted that the occasion also commemorates the birth of Henry Dunant, whose legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness and service across the world.

With heartfelt appreciation, he acknowledged the warm reception and privilege granted by the church leadership, particularly the cleric, Ven. Prof. S. A. Idowu, alongside other ministers of God, for opening their sanctuary to the Red Cross family.

In a moving moment, the cleric offered prayers for all members, asking for strength, protection, and the grace to witness many more years of impactful service and celebration.

The Thanksgiving Service was not just a moment of worship, but a reaffirmation of purpose,a reminder that through unity, compassion, and faith, humanity will always prevail.

Afolayan Taiye (BCO NRCS Kwara Branch)

01/05/2026

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kwara Branch, officially kicks off the 2026 World Red Cross Day with renewed hope, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to serve

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kwara Branch, commenced the commemoration of the 2026 World Red Cross Day on Friday, 1 May 2026, with a well-attended press briefing held at the Red Cross Secretariat in Ilorin. The event marked the beginning of a series of impactful activities under the global theme, “United for Humanity.”

The programme began with opening remarks delivered by the Branch Secretary, Babaomo Ayodeji, who warmly welcomed dignitaries, members of the press, Red Cross volunteers, partners, and stakeholders.

The Chairman of the Kwara Branch, Chief R.O. Balogun, SAN, was ably represented by the Communication & Advocacy Adviser, Dr. Sadiq Toyin, who delivered a heartfelt and reflective press briefing. In his address, he expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for the opportunity to witness this year’s commemoration. He highlighted the significance of the theme, emphasizing unity, compassion, and collective responsibility in addressing humanitarian needs.

The Chairman also reflected on the unfortunate incident of April 10, 2025, when nine volunteers were involved in a ghastly accident along Fangan, Jebba Road while on duty. He noted that, at this time last year, some members were still hospitalized. With deep appreciation, he acknowledged that all affected volunteers survived and are present to partake in this year’s celebration—an inspiring testament to resilience and divine grace.

He further reiterated that the experience underscores the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of Red Cross volunteers who risk their lives daily in service to humanity.

Activities lined up for the 2026 World Red Cross Day commemoration include:
Day 1 (Friday, 1 May 2026): Press Briefing and Jumat Service
Day 3 (Sunday, 3 May 2026): Thanksgiving/Church Service at Mount Olive Cathedral, Pipeline Road, Ilorin
Day 8 (Friday, 8 May 2026): Donation of gift items to Children Reception Centre, Pipeline Road, and B***A School, Ganmo

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Health & Care Adviser, Deborah Oyeleye, appreciated all attendees for their presence and continued support toward advancing humanitarian services in Kwara State.

Members of the press present included representatives from Harmony 103.5 FM, Idofian, and Sobi 101.9 FM, Ilorin. Notable dignitaries in attendance were Elder Raphael Ogedengbe and Alhaji Umar Mohammed, among others.

In continuation of the Day 1 activities, a Jumat service was held at the Nurudeen Mamadiya Akata Mosque. Members of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kwara Branch, gathered in solemn prayers to mark the occasion. The Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheu Badmus Yahaya Alatunse, led special prayers for the success of the commemoration and for continued strength and protection for all humanitarian workers.

The day’s events reflected unity, gratitude, and renewed dedication, setting a strong tone for the remaining activities.

As the Kwara Branch continues its celebration, the message remains clear: together, united for humanity, we can make a lasting difference.

Afolayan Taiye
(BCO NRCS Kwara Branch)

30/04/2026

NRCS Kwara Branch Successfully hosted Its Monthly REBUMAA Stakeholders Coordination Meeting

On Thursday, April 30th, 2026, the Red Cross Hall in Ilorin, Kwara State, buzzed with collaborative energy as the Nigerian Red Cross Society Kwara Branch hosted the monthly REBUMAA Stakeholders Coordination Meeting

- Moderated by Afolayan Taiye, the Branch Communication Officer, the meeting opened with enthusiasm and purpose.
- Babaomo Ayodeji, Branch Secretary, delivered a heartwarming welcome address, setting the tone for constructive dialogue.
- Saka Moshood, Disaster Management Officer, shared valuable insights on community preparedness, emphasizing readiness in the face of challenges.

The gathering brought together multiple stakeholders, including representatives from:

- Ministry of Environment
- Ministry of Water Resources
- Ministry of Agriculture
- National Orientation Agency (NOA)
- Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA)
- Ministry of Education
- Ministry of Communications
- NESREA
- NSCDC
- SEMA
- NiMet

Stakeholders engaged in vibrant debates on sustaining the interventions of the REBUMAA Project, focusing on a comprehensive and collaborative approach to build resilience against the impacts of climate change in flood-affected communities.

The spirit of partnership and commitment to creating sustainable solutions shone throughout the meeting, marking yet another step toward empowering the community against disaster risks.

Afolayan Taiye (BCO NRCS Kwara Branch)

29/04/2026

Together, we're building a resilient future!

27/04/2026

REBUMAA UI Team Holds Insightful 1-Day Workshop on Flood Forecasting and Community Resilience

On Monday, 27 April 2026, the REBUMAA UI Team successfully hosted a highly engaging and impactful 1-Day Workshop at the Faculty of Social Sciences Board Room, University of Ilorin.

Theme:Harnessing Indigenous Environmental Knowledge and Machine Learning for Flood Forecasting: Enhancing Community-Based Anticipatory Action and Resilience in Nigeria.

The workshop, moderated by Dr. Peter Oyedele, Post-Doctoral Fellow, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders to explore innovative and sustainable approaches to flood forecasting and resilience building.

In his welcome address, Prof. A.S. Gbadegesin emphasized the need to sustain the gains of the REBUMAA project as it gradually rounds up, encouraging stakeholders to deepen ownership and ensure continuity of project outcomes.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigerian Red Cross Society National Headquarters, Ganiyu Abdullahi urged participants to engage actively and pay close attention to the rich learning opportunities the workshop presented.

Another goodwill message from the Branch Secretary of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kwara Branch, Babaomo Ayodeji, ably represented by the Branch Communication Officer, Afolayan Taiye, encouraged participants to share knowledge, experiences, and resources in addressing the pressing realities of climate change, especially in flood-prone communities.

Technical sessions featured insightful presentations from distinguished facilitators:

- Prof. Usman Raheem led discussions on flood risk, anticipatory action, and integrated knowledge systems.
- Prof. Abdullahi Ali Arazeem explored community perception, trust, and adoption of hybrid forecast systems.
- Prof. A.O. Bajehfacilitated sessions on machine learning for hybrid flood forecasting and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems.

A major highlight of the workshop was the interactive group work and presentations, where participants collaborated to generate practical ideas and strategies for strengthening community resilience.

Participants were drawn from a broad spectrum of REBUMAA stakeholders, including:

- NRCS Kwara Branch
- Representatives from the Ministries of Environment, Water Resources, Communication, and Agriculture
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- NiMet
- Academics, lecturers, and students from the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ilorin
- Representatives from NRCS Ogun Branch, NRCS National Headquarters, and the University of Ibadan.

The workshop was truly valuable and insightful, reinforcing the power of collaboration, indigenous knowledge, and technology-driven solutions in advancing anticipatory action and building resilient communities across Nigeria.

Afolayan Taiye
(BCO NRCS Kwara Branch)

14/04/2026

Day 2: REBUMAA Validation Exercise in Ogun

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), in collaboration with IFRC, continued the REBUMAA Validation Exercise on April 14, 2026, in Sokori Community, Ogun State.

Teams carried out house-to-house verification of flood-affected beneficiaries, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Focus Group Discussions engaged men, women, youth, and Persons with Disabilities, providing key insights into community needs.

Findings revealed many residents live close to the river, increasing flood risks and highlighting the need for sustained support and resilience-building.

NRCS and IFRC remain committed to reaching the most vulnerable and strengthening community resilience.

Afolayan Taiye (BCO NRCS Kwara Branch)

14/04/2026

REBUMAA:The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has commenced the REBUMAA Validation Exercise in Ogun State on Monday, 13 April 2026.

Teams are currently working across Sokori, Waterside, and Obafemi Owode to validate beneficiaries affected by the 2025 floods.

The 10-day exercise includes:
- Beneficiary identification
- Focus group discussions
- Key informant interviews

This is to ensure accurate and transparent data.

This process will pave the way for livelihood support to help affected households recover and rebuild sustainably.

Afolayan Taiye (BCO, NRCS Kwara Branch)

05/04/2026

29/03/2026

Nigerian Red Cross Society Kwara Branch stood tall in humanity and readiness ensuring a safe and peaceful Palm Sunday procession, across Ilorin

On Sunday, 29th March 2026, members of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kwara Branch, demonstrated their unwavering commitment to humanity as they converged at St. Barnabas Cathedral, Ilorin, to participate in the 2026 Palm Sunday procession.

The team, led by the Branch Secretary, Babaomo Ayodeji, was strategically positioned to provide immediate response in case of any emergencies during the procession. Their presence reflected the Red Cross mandate of alleviating human suffering and ensuring the safety of all.

The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kwara State Chapter, Rt. Rev. Sunday Timothy Gbade Adewole. Also in attendance was the Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Timothy Akangbe, who conveyed warm greetings from the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, and the Deputy Governor, Mr. Patrick Kayode Alabi.

In his address, Rev. Akangbe urged all Christians to maintain peace, discipline, and orderliness throughout the procession. He emphasized that the state government is fully aware of the event and, in collaboration with CAN, has ensured adequate measures are in place for a peaceful celebration. He further offered prayers for divine goodness and mercy upon all participants.

The procession followed a well-coordinated route from St. Barnabas Cathedral through Amilegbe, Ipata, Opo Malu, Taiwo-Isale, Unity, and Post Office, before returning to the Cathedral.

Notably, the entire exercise was conducted peacefully, with no casualties recorded—an outcome that highlights effective planning, community cooperation, and the readiness of emergency response teams, including the Nigerian Red Cross Society.

Indeed, it was a successful and spiritually uplifting event, reinforcing unity, faith, and the spirit of service within the community.

Afolayan Taiye
BCO NRCS Kwara Branch

28/03/2026

The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Detachment 9, Kwara Branch Joins The Monthly State-Wide Environmental Sanitation Exercise

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), Detachment 9, Kwara Branch, actively participated in the monthly statewide environmental sanitation exercise held on Saturday, 28th March 2026, in Ilorin, Kwara State.

As part of this impactful initiative, members of Detachment 9 carried out a thorough cleanup of the surroundings of the Nigerian Red Cross Society Kwara Branch Headquarters, located at No. 5, Red Cross Road, GRA, Ilorin. The exercise reflected the organization’s continued dedication to promoting hygiene, environmental sustainability, and public health within the community.

The sanitation activity served as a vital reminder of the importance of maintaining a clean environment as a foundation for Members living and community well-being. With enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility, members of Detachment 9 worked collectively to clear waste, tidy the environment, and create a safer and more welcoming space for all.

Their participation not only contributed to the success of the statewide exercise but also reinforced the core humanitarian values of the Nigerian Red Cross Society—encouraging volunteerism, unity, and proactive community service.

Indeed, through consistent efforts like this, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Detachment 9, Kwara Branch, continues to champion the cause of a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment for present and future generations.

Afolayan Taiye
BCO NRCS Kwara Nigerian Red Cross Society Kwara State Branch

26/03/2026

REBUMAA: NRCS Kwara Branch Stakeholders Adopt Activities for 2026

In a powerful show of unity, the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) Kwara Branch REBUMAA Stakeholders convened on Thursday, 26th March 2026, to adopt activities for the year ahead. This decision came during the REBUMAA Stakeholders Coordination Meeting held at the Red Cross Hall in Ilorin, Kwara State, where stakeholders collaborated to outline initiatives aimed at enhancing community resilience to climate change.

The meeting emphasized breaking barriers and building capacity, shaping a future where anticipation leads to proactive action. Babaomo Ayodeji, the Branch Secretary of NRCS Kwara Branch, highlighted that the objective was to strengthen the resilience of selected vulnerable communities to climate change in Kwara State.

Aremu A.O., representing NESREA, put forth a motion to adopt the REBUMAA activities for 2026. This motion was seconded by Engr. Hajarat Aremu from the Ministry of Water Resources. Following this, the Branch Communication Officer, Afolayan Taiye, called for a voice vote, which resulted in unanimous support for the proposed activities.

Other stakeholders in attendance included representatives from NSCDC, NOA, KWEPA, and the Ministry of Environment, amongst others.

Stakeholders acknowledged the need for continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation to ensure that the initiatives remain relevant and effective in addressing emerging challenges.

The adoption of the REBUMAA activities, therefore, is just the beginning. The real work lies in translating these plans into tangible actions that will make a difference in the lives of people. This includes reaching out to communities, conducting risk assessments, implementing preventive measures, and providing support during emergencies.

For the people of Kwara State, particularly those in vulnerable communities, the outcomes of this initiative could be transformative. Improved preparedness means fewer lives lost during disasters, reduced economic losses, and quicker recovery. It also means stronger, more self-reliant communities that can withstand future challenges.

The significance of the March 26 meeting extends beyond the immediate context. It reflects a broader shift toward proactive governance and community engagement in addressing societal challenges.

It demonstrates that when stakeholders come together with a shared vision and a commitment to action, meaningful change is possible.
As the meeting drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of optimism among participants.

The road ahead may be challenging, but the foundation has been laid for a more coordinated and effective approach to resilience-building in Kwara State.

In the final analysis, the story of REBUMAA is one of hope, collaboration, and determination. It is about people and institutions coming together to confront challenges head on and to build a future where communities are not defined by their vulnerabilities but by their strength and resilience.

With the adoption of the 2026 activities, the NRCS Kwara Branch and its partners have taken a bold step in that direction. The task now is to sustain the momentum, deepen collaboration, and ensure that the vision of resilient communities becomes a reality.

Afolayan Taiye
BCO NRCS Kwara Branch