Borno Schools Set to Reopen as Over 600,000 Flood Victims to Vacate IDP Camps
By Tada Juthan
In preparation for the resumption of the new academic session, the over 600,000 flood victims currently sheltering in 32 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across Borno State are set to vacate next week.
This decision was disclosed by the state’s Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, during a briefing in Maiduguri on Thursday.
He emphasized that the closure of the camps, scheduled for Monday, is necessary to allow students to return to their classrooms.
Prof. Tar explained that the camps are currently housing over 30,000 households affected by severe flooding.
He further noted that the state government cannot continue to sustain the displaced persons in these camps for more than two weeks, citing the urgent need to prepare the facilities for educational purposes.
In response to concerns about housing for displaced persons whose homes have been destroyed, Tar assured that tents would be provided until permanent housing solutions are arranged.
He also highlighted ongoing government efforts, including distributing N10,000, food items, and potable water to about 40 percent of the camp population.
Additionally, the commissioner issued a warning to the flood victims against the consumption of dead or stray animals, urging them to prioritize their safety.
Looking ahead, Prof. Tar assured the public that the weather forecast for the coming days predicts dry conditions, alleviating fears of further flooding.
This initiative marks a crucial step toward restoring normalcy in Borno State as the government continues to navigate the challenges posed by the recent floods.
