The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has supported the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), Sokoto State Branch, in training 90 volunteers on safety and security during humanitarian operations.
The Safer Access Framework training, held from September 22 to 29, 2026, brought together volunteers from the Sokoto North, Sokoto South, and Wamakko Local Government Areas.
The training was designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to operate safely and effectively while providing humanitarian assistance, particularly in sensitive and challenging environments.
Speaking on the program, an NRCS official said the training was necessary because volunteers often work directly with vulnerable communities and may be exposed to various operational and security risks.
According to the official, “Volunteers must understand that their conduct, communication, and relationship with communities can have a direct impact on their safety and the acceptance of humanitarian activities.”
The official said the training would also help participants improve their understanding of risk management while carrying out their humanitarian responsibilities.
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“We want our volunteers to be adequately prepared to operate safely, maintain trust, and uphold the principles of the Nigerian Red Cross Society wherever they are deployed,” the official said.
The Safer Access Framework is designed to help national societies strengthen their preparedness and capacity to operate safely and effectively during armed conflicts, internal disturbances, tensions, and other challenging situations.
Participants were trained on issues including acceptance, security, communication, perception, appropriate conduct, and responsible engagement with communities and other stakeholders.
The NRCS said the ICRC’s support reflected its continued commitment to strengthening the capacity and preparedness of humanitarian personnel and volunteers in Nigeria.
The Sokoto branch appreciated the ICRC for supporting the training, saying improved preparedness would contribute to safer humanitarian operations and more effective assistance to vulnerable populations.
The branch also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the capacity of its volunteers and ensuring they are adequately prepared and protected while serving communities across the state.