By Amos Aar
THE NIGERIAN Red Cross Society on Monday distributed dignity kits to one hundred and ten (110) selected women in Makurdi, including Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
The distribution took place at the JS Tarka Foundation and the State Rehabilitation Board in Apir, both in Makurdi, the state capital.
Speaking at the event, Fatima Nasir, Director of Protection, Gender and Inclusion, as well as Education at the Red Cross’ national headquarters, Abuja, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups across Nigeria.
“We are here today to show our love and support to persons with disabilities. This initiative is not limited to Benue State — it’s also taking place concurrently in five other states,” Nasir said.
She explained that the dignity kits are targeted at young women of reproductive age and include essential hygiene items such as bathing soap, washing soap, detergent, toothbrush, toothpaste, slippers, body cream (Vaseline), underwear, and sanitary pads.
“We call them dignity kits because they are tailored to preserve the dignity of young women. Often, PWDs are overlooked in humanitarian interventions. With this outreach, we want to reassure them that they are seen, valued, and included in Red Cross activities,” she added.
Nasir disclosed that the initiative is being implemented across six states — Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Niger, Kogi, and Kaduna — and that in Benue alone, 110 individuals are benefiting.
On the selection process, she explained that Red Cross offices at the state, local government (divisional), and ward (unit) levels were tasked with identifying vulnerable women using clearly defined criteria. “Our over one million volunteers nationwide helped in selecting beneficiaries who fit into the categories of PWDs, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers,” she said, adding that elderly women will also be included in future distributions.
She also urged women to report incidents of rape or abuse to appropriate authorities in order to seek justice and protect others.
Also speaking, the Benue State Chairman of the Red Cross, Mr. Danladi Umar Salihu, said the organization is making efforts to integrate PWDs more into society. “PWDs are among the most vulnerable, and we want to encourage them to register with the Red Cross so they can access more support and visibility. They are human too and deserve care and inclusion,” he stressed.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Miss Jacinta Igwoli expressed gratitude to the Red Cross for the thoughtful intervention and for continuously considering PWDs in its activities. “Your disability-friendly approach gives us a sense of belonging,” she acknowledged.
