The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has partnered with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to launch a nationwide sensitisation campaign on the compulsory treatment of gunshot victims in Nigeria.
The collaboration was formalized at the NOA Headquarters in Abuja the Director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa Onilu, was represented by the Director of Social Mobilisation, Ayoola Olufemi.
In a post on NOA’s X handle on Friday, officials emphasized the importance of educating the public about the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act, which was signed into law in 2017.
“Delays in providing medical treatment to gunshot victims often result in preventable loss of lives. Many Nigerians are unaware that hospitals are required by law to provide immediate care before demanding police reports, administrative documentation, or financial guarantees,” Olufemi said.
He noted that NOA’s extensive presence, with 818 offices nationwide, positions the agency to lead the awareness campaign and ensure citizens understand their rights under the law.
Representing the ICRC, Deputy Head in Nigeria, James Matthew, praised the partnership and stressed the urgency of educating citizens, healthcare providers, and communities about the law.
“Through NOA’s broad national reach, the ICRC will help ensure gunshot victims receive timely medical care. Improved awareness will save lives, particularly in emergencies,” Matthew said.
The signing ceremony also included participation from NOA officials such as Director of Health and Social Care, Dr. Ayoola Olufemi, Director of Legal, Dogo Williams, and Meriam Yakubu, as well as ICRC members including Humanitarian Affairs Adviser Juliet Kelechi Unudi, and representatives from the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, News Agency of Nigeria, Armed Forces Radio, Science Newspaper, and Daily Trust.
The campaign aims to raise nationwide awareness of the law, promote prompt medical intervention, and ultimately save lives across Nigeria.
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