EDO STATE GOVERNENT PARTNERS NIGERIAN RED CROSS
Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, yesterday, disclosed that
his administration would work with Edo State branch of Nigerian Red Cross
Society to set up an emergency response system for providing First Aid for
accident victims.
Governor Obaseki, receiving members of the society, led by the
Chairman, Festus Alenkhe, disclosed this at the Edo State Government House in
Benin City, adding that his administration had been formulating policies to set
up an ambulance service or emergency response system in the state.
The Red Cross Society, he continued, would be part of the
administration by partnering with the state medical personnel to ensure
success, even as he stressed the need for the society to continue with
rendering selfless services to humanity.
He said: “I am impressed with this society, but what make your
group different is the volunteering nature you are known for and the services
you render to the people. People have shied away from the volunteering effort.
Group like yours should be supported.”
Speaking further, Governor Obaseki expressed believed in the Red
Cross’ values, while assuring them that his administration would continue with
the annual subvention approved by the previous administration led by Comrade
Adams Oshiomhole.
He revealed that he would review and possibly increase the
subvention subsequently as well as settle whatever arrears had accrued to the
society, adding that he had been a junior Red Cross member myself.
On the challenges faced by the group, the Chairman, Festus
Alenkhe, revealed that the group was having troubles with salary payment and
lack of Ambulance for Emergency Response, emergency medical ambulance service
to assist accident victims among others.
He, however, noted that the purpose of the visit was to
congratulate the governor on the work done in the state, explaining that the
Red Cross Society was an independent, humanitarian, relief and development
organisation set up assist victims of disaster and implement health and social
welfare programmes.