ZAKARI ISAH
As the Harmattan season approaches, bringing with it cold and dusty conditions, the National President, of the Foundation for the Protection of Women and Children in Nigeria, Hajiya Ramatu Tijjani, has initiated a vital campaign, aimed at collecting blankets, warm clothing, gloves, and headgear for those in need, including Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and individuals living on the streets.
This campaign coincides with the upcoming World International Girl Child Day on October 11th, 2023 and the urgency arises from the thousands of IDPs scattered across Northern Nigeria who require protection against the cold-related illnesses that often accompany this season.
Hajiya Ramatu Tijjani called for generous contributions from wealthy individuals, corporate organizations, companies, governmental bodies, and non-governmental organizations nationwide.
"Their support is critical in providing cold-weather clothing to those in need".
Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of individuals donating their spare Harmattan clothing to local churches and mosques. "These places of worship can then distribute the items to those less fortunate, ensuring they are safeguarded from the harsh Harmattan conditions".
"Both churches and mosques were encouraged to serve as collection centers for donations, especially for orphanages and street children".
The campaign which underscores the significance of Nigerians coming together to donate cold-protective clothing, is to help prevent the spread of diseases and respiratory infections such as conjunctivitis, asthma, coughs, catarrh, and tonsillitis, which often spike during the Harmattan season.
Hajiya Ramatu Tijjani explained that "Harmattan brings unique health and environmental challenges, affecting skin, hair, and overall well-being.
"With the season's imminent arrival, thousands of IDPs, beggars, and destitute individuals, including many orphans, are in urgent need of support from the Nigerian community" " she noted.
While many Nigerians are preparing to purchase cold-protective clothing for themselves and their families, it is crucial to remember the less fortunate, including street beggars, destitute individuals, and IDPs, who often struggle to stay warm during the Harmattan season", Hajiya Ramatu added.
Similarly, a Muslim scholar Mallam Gambo Abdullahi Barnawa Kaduna, emphasized the blessings and rewards associated with donating clothing or blankets to IDPs, destitute individuals, and anyone in need.
Furthermore, Comrade Rilwanu, the National President of "Beyond Borders of Disability in Nigeria", highlights the neglect and stigmatization faced by physically challenged individuals in Nigeria.
He laments their exclusion from most development activities in the country and calls on the government to provide support during times of disaster.
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