The Lagos Branch of the Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS) says it is collaborating with the Lagos State Ministry of Health (LSMOH), in tracing contacts of suspected COVID-19 cases.
The Chairman of the Branch, Mrs Adebola Kolawole, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in an interview on Friday in Lagos that it was part of the society’s intervention in curtailing the spread of the disease.
According to her, the Red Cross do not only intervene during disasters, but also in other crises that affect humanity, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The Chairman said that the aim of the collaboration was in keeping with the society’s principles to help humanity, without expecting any reward and also for the successful implementation of tracing for COVID-19.
Kolawole said that Red Cross volunteers were not part of the team of health workers providing treatment, but were available for other services including house to house contact tracing.
She said that the volunteers were providing support across local government areas within the state.
“In times like this, we believe that we can be partners in progress.
“People are comfortable with the Red Cross and when they see our emblem, they relax and give audience to the team, which helps in getting information,” Kolawole said.
She commended the State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the LSMOH for supporting and identifying with the Red Cross.
“Lagos State Government sees us as a subsidiary and they have been good to us; we are happy for the collaboration,” the chairman said.
She called on individuals and organisations to help the Red Cross by donating Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), for its volunteers on the field.
“Our volunteers out there need to be well kitted,” she said. (NAN)
