By Jungle Reporters
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed deep concern over the growing misuse of the Red Cross emblem in Nigeria, warning that such abuse endangers humanitarian workers and undermines the emblem’s internationally recognized protective role.
Speaking at the opening of a three-day emergency first aid training for journalists in Lagos, the ICRC’s Public Relations Specialist, Mr. Aliyu Dawobe, emphasized that the Red Cross emblem is strictly protected under international humanitarian law. However, he said it is increasingly being exploited by unauthorized individuals and businesses across the country.
“The Red Cross emblem is not a marketing tool,” Dawobe stated. “It is a protective symbol designed to save lives during emergencies.”
According to him, pharmacies, hospitals, private vehicles, and vendors are misusing the emblem on goods and premises. This, he warned, compromises the integrity of the symbol and places real humanitarian responders in danger.
Dawobe explained that the emblem has two legitimate uses:
- Protective Use: to mark emergency responders and facilities in conflict zones or crises, signaling neutrality and protection.
- Indicative Use: worn by trained personnel to show affiliation with the Red Cross or similar humanitarian organizations.
“Any misuse of the emblem undermines its value and weakens the protection it offers to those serving on the frontlines,” he said.
He called on the government to take swift action against offenders, including issuing warnings or imposing sanctions.
“Protecting this emblem is essential for safeguarding the lives of humanitarian workers,” Dawobe stressed.
Training Journalists for Emergencies
The training workshop, organized by the ICRC in collaboration with the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), aims to equip journalists who report from high-risk areas with basic life-saving skills for responding to medical emergencies.
“Journalists often work in volatile environments — from conflict zones to civil unrest — where they may face life-threatening injuries. This training could make the difference between life and death,” Dawobe added.
The intensive three-day programme focuses on practical emergency response techniques tailored to help journalists handle critical situations, reinforcing the ICRC’s commitment to protecting those who work in hazardous settings.
Red Cross Lagos Urges Wider Awareness
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Adebola Kolawole, Branch Officer of the Red Cross, Lagos, highlighted the dual purpose of the training: to build journalists’ capacity in first aid and to raise awareness about the ICRC’s mission and activities across Nigeria.
She urged participants to take the training seriously and to pass on the knowledge to colleagues in their newsrooms.
