GPON AdminYola, Adamawa State, Nigeria - October 6, 2022
On Thursday, October 5th, 2023, Yola, the capital city of Adamawa State, was hit by a devastating flood that left a trail of destruction in its wake.
Destruction in Jimeta, Yola, following the flooding.
Source: GPON/Chukwuekem Chibuikem
The relentless waters forced families from their homes, compelling them to seek refuge in schools across the state. While the immediate response to the crisis involved using buildings and schools as temporary shelters, it is important to note that this solution is far from ideal. The use of schools as shelters, while a quick response to an urgent situation, has proven to be inadequate for meeting the basic needs of the flood-affected population.
A block of classrooms temporarily used as shelters for the IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons).
Source: GPON/Chukwuekem Chibuikem
The displaced individuals, numbering close to two thousand, were seen to be scattered across the camps in clusters. Some of the most pressing issues they highlighted that they faced were the lack of proper shelter, lack of proper sanitation, and insufficient access to clean water. The schools, not designed to accommodate such large numbers, are overcrowded, leading to compromised living conditions. Moreover, the absence of adequate sanitation facilities poses a serious health risk. Access to clean toilets and safe water points is limited, further aggravating the uncertain living conditions.
Mariam*, from Bwaranji (an affected community by the flooding) and currently staying at Dougeri Primary School – one of the camps set up, said:
“The flood affected us badly. It has taken our homes and we have nowhere to stay, so we had to come to this place. As you can see, where we are is a school, some of us use sacks to sleep, and not all of us have mats. We can’t do any business here, as we do daily business and that is how we feed.”
To address this urgent humanitarian crisis, a comprehensive and sustainable response plan must be put into action. Firstly, efforts should be made to identify alternative shelters, such as community centers or unused buildings, which can provide more space and better living conditions for displaced families. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities are essential in locating suitable accommodations.
GOALPrime officers in one of the temporary camps with an official from the Red Cross
Source: GPON/Chukwuekem Chibuikem
Our Country Director, GOALPrime Organization Nigeria, Dr. Christopher Chinedumuije added that:
“It is crucial to establish proper sanitation facilities and ensure access to clean water points within the temporary shelters. Adequate toilets, showers, and handwashing stations must be installed to maintain hygiene and prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases.
Additionally, awareness campaigns on hygiene practices, disease prevention, and water conservation should be conducted within the temporary shelters. Education and information dissemination are key to empowering the affected population with the knowledge necessary to safeguard their health and well-being amidst the crisis.
In the long term, the government and relevant authorities need to invest in flood prevention measures, including improved drainage systems, early warning systems, and flood-resistant infrastructure. Public awareness campaigns on disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation can also help communities better prepare for and respond to similar situations in the future.
The use of schools as emergency camps is in itself a threat to education, as it denies children access to a safe and conducive learning environment and the continuous use of the classrooms poses a risk of destruction of facilities put in place to help learners. A quick resettlement of the affected people is essential so that the schools can fully be used to serve their original purpose.”
Azeez*, Camp security in front of one of the temporary camps
Source: GPON/Chukwuekem Chibuikem
We urge national and international humanitarian organizations, governments, and concerned individuals to step forward and extend a helping hand to the people of Yola, Adamawa State. The situation is dire, and the displaced families are in desperate need of immediate assistance. By working together, we can alleviate their suffering and help them rebuild their lives. Let us stand in solidarity with the people of Yola and demonstrate the compassion and empathy that define our shared humanity.
A better humanity is possible.
Be Intentional!
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