Nigerian Red Cross Society Ikot Ekpene Division, Akwa Ibom State Branch

27/09/2025

❤️ 15 Things You Need to Know About the Red Cross Movement Globally

The Red Cross is more than just a logo or a name, it’s a powerful global symbol of humanity, compassion, and hope. From the frontlines of war zones to communities affected by natural disasters, the Red Cross has become a lifeline for millions around the world. But how much do you really know about this remarkable movement?

15 things you should know about the Red Cross Movement globally:

1. 🌍 It’s Truly Global

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement operates in over 192 countries, making it one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world. Wherever there's a crisis, the Red Cross is likely not far behind.

2. 🤝 It’s Neutral, Impartial, and Independent

These three principles are the backbone of the Movement. The Red Cross does not take sides in conflicts or political issues, its only mission is to help those in need.

3. 🏁 It Began on a Battlefield

The idea was born in 1859, after Swiss businessman Henry Dunant witnessed the horror of the Battle of Solferino. He organized help for the wounded, and the Red Cross was born.

4. The First Red Cross Society Was Formed in 1863

That’s when the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was officially established in Geneva, Switzerland, marking the formal start of the Movement.

5. ⚖️ It Helped Shape International Humanitarian Law

The Red Cross played a key role in the creation of the Geneva Conventions, which set the rules of war to protect civilians, prisoners, and the wounded.

6. 🕊️ It Has a Peaceful Mission, Even in War

Even in times of armed conflict, the Red Cross is allowed to visit prisoners of war, provide medical aid, and ensure human dignity is preserved.

7. ❤️ It’s Powered by Volunteers

Over 14 million volunteers worldwide form the heartbeat of the Movement. From emergency responders to youth leaders, they make the mission possible.

8. 🌪️ First to Arrive, Last to Leave

During natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, pandemics : the Red Cross is often first on the ground and stays to help communities recover and rebuild.

9. 🚑 It Offers First Aid & Health Services Globally

From teaching CPR to organizing blood drives, the Red Cross promotes community health and preparedness worldwide.

10. 👥 It Has Three Pillars

The Movement has three main components:

The ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross)

IFRC (International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies)

National Societies (like Nigerian Red Cross, the Zambian Red Cross)

11. 💡 It Promotes Humanitarian Education

Red Cross youth programs educate millions about humanitarian values, peace, and leadership, shaping the next generation of global citizens.

12. 🏳️ Different Symbols, Same Heart

Not all societies use the red cross symbol. Some use the red crescent or red crystal, depending on cultural and regional preferences, but the mission remains the same.

13. 🧭 Guided by 7 Fundamental Principles

These are: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality. These guide every decision, big or small.

14. 📞 It Helps Reunite Families

Through its Restoring Family Links program, the Red Cross helps locate missing relatives separated by war, disaster, or migration.

15. It Belongs to You

Whether you're a volunteer, donor, or just someone who cares, the Red Cross welcomes everyone. It’s a movement by people, for people, and its doors are always open.

Together for Humanity ❤️

The Red Cross is not just a global organization; it’s a global family. And just like any family, it thrives on connection, compassion, and collective action. So whether you're in Nigeria, United Kingdom, America or anywhere in the world, when you wear that red cross or red crescent, you’re carrying a symbol of hope that transcends borders.

Join the movement. Be the difference. Together, for humanity.

27/09/2025

In 1863, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was founded in Geneva. A year later, the first Geneva Convention was signed, laying the groundwork for humanitarian law.

Today, the Movement includes:

The ICRC

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)

192 National Societies around the world

At the core of this sprawling humanitarian family are seven fundamental principles, the moral compass guiding every mission, every act of kindness, and every life saved.

27/09/2025

The Red Cross Movement began with one man’s heartbreak on a battlefield and became a global beacon of hope. Today, wherever disaster strikes or suffering is found, its volunteers arrive with no agenda but love, no weapon but compassion, and no uniform but the emblem of care.

Because in the end, every act of kindness, guided by principles, can change the world.

12/07/2025

05/07/2025

Don't wait for tragedy to knock before you decide to prepare. First aid is not just about bandages or CPR—it's about being ready to protect, preserve, and possibly save a life.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, student, driver, office worker, or retiree—you can make a difference in an emergency.

Enroll in a first aid training course. Teach your children the basics. Encourage your schools, offices, and places of worship to organize training sessions. The life you save tomorrow could be someone you love—or even a stranger who'll never forget your act of courage.

Be the one who knows what to do when others don’t. Learn first aid. Share first aid. Live with readiness.

04/07/2025

Being a part of an internationally recognized and globally impactful organization is both an honor and a responsibility. It offers a platform to grow, serve humanity, and make meaningful contributions to society at large. This is why we strongly encourage everyone seeking to volunteer or join a reputable organization to ensure they do so with credible and legitimate institutions.

As a division, we have lost count of the number of calls, emails, and WhatsApp messages we have received from international and classified organizations seeking to verify the volunteer history of applicants who claimed to have served with us. In many cases, our confirmation or recommendation determines whether the individual will move forward in their application or employment process.

This highlights the importance of genuine service and integrity. Your volunteer experience is more than a line on your CV—it reflects your values, your commitment, and your contribution to humanity.

We encourage you to take volunteering seriously. Join a global organization with credibility. Serve sincerely. Your efforts today can shape opportunities for your future.

Let your story of service be one worth telling.

No Maggi,
No sugar,
No spices..
AND once again,

Let your story of service be one worth telling.

29/05/2025

29/05/2025

27/05/2025

Today, 27th May, we proudly join millions across Nigeria in celebrating Children’s Day, a special occasion dedicated to honoring and uplifting the voices, rights, and potential of our children. The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Akwa Ibom State Branch – Ikot Ekpene Division, together with all our school units, proudly participated in the ceremonial match past alongside other uniformed organizations in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.

Children’s Day has been celebrated in Nigeria since 1964, following its official establishment to recognize the importance of children in our society. It is a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect, educate, and empower the next generation.

This year’s theme, "Enhancing the Total Wellbeing of the Nigerian Child through Quality Education", resonates deeply with our core mission as the Red Cross. As a humanitarian organization, we are committed to promoting health, safety, and education among young people. We believe that every child deserves access to quality learning environments that nurture both their minds and their humanity.

Through our School Red Cross Units, we continue to instill values of empathy, discipline, and community service—preparing our children to be not only well-educated but also compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

As we celebrate today, let us renew our dedication to creating a safer, healthier, and more inclusive world for all children.

Happy Children’s Day!

25/05/2025

The training programs offered by the Red Cross have profoundly enriched society, particularly in the domains of first aid and public education. Their efforts have not only saved lives but also nurtured a culture of preparedness, resilience, and civic responsibility.

1. Life-Saving First Aid and Emergency Response
Red Cross first aid training equips individuals with the critical skills needed to act swiftly and effectively during emergencies. Thousands have been empowered to provide immediate assistance during accidents, natural disasters, and medical crises—often bridging the gap before professional help arrives. This broad dissemination of life-saving knowledge has notably reduced fatalities and long-term injuries, especially in underserved and remote communities.

2. Health Education and Disaster Preparedness
Through educational outreach, the Red Cross promotes hygiene, disease prevention, and emergency preparedness in schools, workplaces, and local communities. Their workshops and awareness campaigns help individuals understand how to maintain sanitation, prevent illness, and respond safely during disasters such as floods and fires. This proactive approach significantly enhances community resilience and minimizes the impact of crises on vulnerable populations.

3. Youth Empowerment and Leadership Development
By engaging youth through Red Cross clubs and school initiatives, the organization fosters leadership, teamwork, and humanitarian values. These programs instill a spirit of volunteerism and empathy, preparing students to become socially conscious and proactive leaders of tomorrow.

4. Strengthening Community Resilience
Red Cross training empowers individuals at the grassroots level to act decisively during emergencies. Local volunteers, often the first responders in their communities, play a crucial role in managing crises—especially where formal emergency services are limited. Their presence strengthens the community’s capacity to respond and recover effectively.

The Red Cross's commitment to education and training has not only enhanced individual readiness in the face of health and safety challenges but also cultivated a society grounded in compassion, responsibility, and collective action.