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Maiduguri Floods: Over 600,000 Displaced as CASFOD , Pam Care Step In Lifesaving Support
Maiduguri Floods: Over 600,000 Displaced as CASFOD , Pam Care Step In Lifesaving Support
By Francis Okoye
The recent floods in Borno State, particularly in Maiduguri and Jere, have left a trail of devastation, displacing over 600,000 people and resulting in the deaths of at least 30 individuals.
The flooding, caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam following heavy rainfall, has submerged critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and government buildings. Residents have been forced to flee their homes, with many now sheltering in makeshift camps.
Among the hardest-hit areas are the livestock and agricultural sectors, which are the primary sources of livelihood for many families. The floods have affected herds, leaving farmers without income or food. The destruction is especially dire for communities that heavily rely on livestock for their survival.
Unique Care and Support Foundation (CASFOD) and Pam Care Community Initiative, two organizations with a longstanding presence in Borno, have stepped up to provide urgent relief. CASFOD is currently on the ground in Maiduguri, delivering clean drinking water, health and nutrition services, and hygiene items to displaced families in IDP camps. They have also been working with local and international partners like the World Food Programme (WFP), Intersos, CATAI, and BOWDI to provide hot meals and drinking water to those affected.
Pam Care and CASFOD had previously launched a successful livestock livelihood program, benefiting 1,700 vulnerable families. However, more than 70% of these families have now lost their livestock due to the floods, further exacerbating the crisis.
The risk of disease outbreaks, such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery, remains high due to contaminated water sources and overcrowded camps. CASFOD and Pam Care are urgently appealing for additional support from the government and international donors to expand their relief efforts and rebuild the livelihoods of those affected.
As the situation worsens, CASFOD and Pam Care are working around the clock to provide critical interventions but we stress that more needs to be done. With more resources, we aim to address the immediate health and sanitation needs in the camps and help flood-affected families regain stability.
Local residents, who have lost their homes and livelihoods, are now relying on humanitarian efforts for survival. We emphasize that collective efforts are essential to prevent further suffering and ensure a swift recovery for Borno State’s most vulnerable populations.
Maiduguri Floods: Over 600,000 Displaced as CASFOD , Pam Care Step In Lifesaving Support
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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