By Oluyemi Israel
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing inclusive and quality healthcare, while also strengthening national disaster preparedness, particularly with a focus on people with disabilities.
This assurance was delivered by his Senior Special Assistant on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Mr. Mohammed Isa, during a validation workshop held on Tuesday in Abuja for the Nigerian Red Cross Society’s (NRCS) 2026–2027 Unified Disaster Response Plan.
Isa explained that the President’s health and development agenda aims to leave no one behind, especially vulnerable populations.
He emphasized that individuals with disabilities must be fully integrated into disaster planning and healthcare delivery.
“This plan must include climate adaptation strategies, early warning systems, and community-based responses that are disability-inclusive,” he stated.
He also stressed the need for an inclusive, participatory approach that reflects the voices of all stakeholders.
Mr. Oluyemisi Adeaga, President of the NRCS, represented by Hajia Ummul-Mohammed Mustapha, said the goal of the meeting was to align a unified national response strategy for disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
He noted that the plan addresses critical issues like climate change, health, migration, and displacement, all aimed at reducing human suffering in affected communities.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Kersten Voigt, Country Representative of the British Red Cross, highlighted the increasing impact of climate change and conflict in Nigeria, describing the country as highly vulnerable to both natural and man-made disasters.
He called for more strategic use of limited resources in the face of growing humanitarian needs, stating, “We need to be strategic and efficient, delivering greater impact with fewer resources.”
Voigt also underscored the essential role of the NRCS’s volunteer network in frontline response efforts, reinforcing the need for collaboration between government and humanitarian partners.