On Wednesday, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Nigeria revealed that over the past decade, Nigeria has documented a missing caseload exceeding 25,000 individuals registered with the Red Cross.
In an interview with Punch newspaper, Aliyu Dawobe, the Public Relations Officer of ICRC Nigeria, explained that these 25,000 missing persons were individuals whose relatives approached the Red Cross seeking registration for their cases.
Dawobe stated, “ICRC Nigeria initiated family unification efforts in 2013 in collaboration with the Nigerian Red Cross Society. The 25,000 missing persons represent only a portion of those who are aware that ICRC is assisting in reuniting separated or missing family members. They have registered their cases, and the count stands at over 25,000.”
Nevertheless, Dawobe acknowledged that the actual number of missing persons over the past decade might have decreased, considering that some families managed to reunite without ICRC’s involvement. He commented, “This figure could decrease because some individuals may reunite with their families independently, without the ICRC being informed.”
According to information provided by ICRC Nigeria, more than 400 individuals were successfully traced, reconnecting with their families. Additionally, families of 563 individuals in detention received information about their loved ones. Through Red Cross Messages, 580 civilians reestablished contact with their families. Furthermore, 17 unaccompanied children were reunited with their families between January and September 2023.
ICRC is currently organizing the 3rd international conference for the families of missing persons. This conference aims to bring together families from across the globe to share their experiences, discuss coping mechanisms, and exchange insights gained over the years.
The virtual nature of the conference enables families from diverse locations, countries, and continents to connect, fostering peer-to-peer support and knowledge exchange. The goal is to facilitate the adoption of positive experiences in their respective contexts.
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