The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has raised serious concerns about the rising violence against health workers and volunteers in conflict zones across Nigeria. This issue was a central focus during a recently concluded three-day workshop in Cross River State, which addressed first aid techniques and emergency response strategies. The seminar underscored the rising dangers medical professionals face and stressed the critical importance of immediate safety measures in areas affected by conflict. Omoruyi Daniel Edobor, the First Aid and Pre-hospital Care Field Officer for the ICRC, voiced his concern regarding the increasing incidents of violence against medical workers, especially in regions affected by conflict like the northeast.
Edobor emphasised that medical providers and Red Cross volunteers are increasingly being subjected to acts of violence, including harassment, kidnapping, and even loss of life, while fulfilling their responsibilities. He pointed out that this alarming pattern has resulted in the loss of several committed medical workers who relentlessly strive to provide critical assistance in some of the nation’s most dangerous areas. The event was designed for reporters and media professionals and aimed to provide attendees with essential first-aid techniques, allowing them to react effectively during emergencies. Participants learned different ways to deliver immediate care and safely move victims from accident sites to places where they could receive adequate medical assistance.
Media professionals received valuable training at the workshop.
He further highlighted the crucial importance of media professionals in conflict communities, pointing out that reporters frequently operate on the front lines, where their capacity to provide emergency assistance can impact survival outcomes. The organisation’s focus on media practitioners is rooted in the understanding that journalists, like medical workers, are frequently exposed to dangerous situations. By providing them with the necessary first aid skills, the ICRC aims to enhance their capacity to manage emergencies and protect the lives of those affected by conflict or accidents.
As a result, Edobor encouraged journalists to keep themselves updated on global first-aid treatment standards and be ready to provide emergency assistance when necessary. The training component further emphasised ensuring safe access for medical professionals and volunteers amidst conflicts under international laws. Edobor highlighted that those in the medical sector, including Red Cross volunteers and other Welfare personnel, should be permitted to carry out their responsibilities without threats or intimidation. He urged increased recognition and respect for the critical tasks performed by these individuals, who frequently put their lives on the line to assist people in distress.
Journalists were urged to participate in global humanitarian efforts.
Based on the principles outlined in the Geneva Conventions, their mission is to deliver support to everyone without discrimination based on race, religion, or nationality. Volunteers must embody empathy and dedication in their service to others. Moreover, Edobor urged media professionals to engage in this global humanitarian effort. Likewise, they have consistently supported the spirit of volunteering, and this workshop served as a continuation of its initiatives to engage a larger number of individuals in its aim to rescue lives and reduce hardship.
Furthermore, Edobor emphasised the importance of reporters understanding medical language and protocols to deliver precise and adequate support in crises. He pointed out that injured people frequently seek comfort from their caregivers, and by exuding professionalism and composure, media personnel can encourage a sense of optimism and trust in the individuals they support. At the end of the workshop, attendees received fully equipped first aid kits to signify their new roles as media professionals and trained emergency responders. The ICRC aspires that this training will enhance the prompt treatment of injuries in areas affected by conflict and promote a Culture of safety, empathy, and humanitarian support throughout the country.
Related Article: Education can stop violence In Nigeria
Lastly, the increasing violence towards medical professionals poses a threatened danger that jeopardises the essence of humanitarian work. The organisation’s call for protecting and securing routes for medical personnel and volunteers is vital for allowing those who put themselves in danger to assist others without the fear of getting harmed. The ICRC enhances the capabilities of media professionals by teaching them first-aid techniques and creating a community ready to respond to emergencies. This initiative supports the ICRC’s goal of preserving lives and advancing Peace amid conflict.