A Bauchi-based Civil Society Organisation (CSO), Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative (J4PD), has commiserated with victims of the recent flood disaster that devastated Maiduguri metropolis and its environs in Borno State, North Eastern Nigeria.
J4PD described the disaster as the most unfortunate and an act of God that can occur anytime, in any form, and anywhere.
The organisation also appealed to corporate bodies and well-to-do individuals to donate essential items to the affected persons to alleviate some of the hardships the victims are enduring.
The commiseration and appeal were contained in a press statement signed and issued by the Knowledge Management and Communication Advisor, Bashir Hassan Abubakar, and made available to newsmen in Bauchi on Monday.
The statement noted that, “At this particular period of the flood devastation, what the victims really need are daily supplies and access to free healthcare services in their camps or host communities.”
While acknowledging the support of the Federal Government and other state governments in managing the flood crisis, the statement emphasised that basic necessities such as toiletries, menstrual hygiene kits, mosquito nets, toilet facilities, and clean drinking water should be provided adequately at all existing camps.
The CSO stated, “J4PD is commiserating with the government and people of Borno State during this trying period. It is heartwarming to note the proactive measures the Borno State Government is taking to rehabilitate the victims of the flood disaster.”
Coordinator of J4PD, Elizabeth Kah, stated, “For the remaining displaced persons who are still in camps, basic amenities like water, toilet facilities, and medications should be prioritised by the government.”
She stressed, “This would prevent the outbreak of preventable diseases within the camps.”
The statement also commended the humanitarian efforts of international bodies like the EU, UNICEF, WHO, MSF, corporate bodies, and private individuals who are supporting Borno State during and after the flood crisis.
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