BY NONYE JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has expressed deep sorrow over the recent catastrophic flood that devastated parts of Niger State, describing the incident as a full-scale humanitarian crisis in urgent need of coordinated government action.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, and made available to newsmen the association lamented the massive loss of lives and destruction of property, calling for sustained and immediate intervention from all levels of government and stakeholders.
According to Rev. Hayab, the scale of the disaster which has claimed at least 151 lives, displaced over 500 households, and destroyed critical infrastructure requires more than sympathy from government officials.
“We are heartbroken by the sheer scale of devastation. The loss of lives, the destruction of homes, and the collapse of roads and bridges are profoundly distressing,” he said. “Entire families have been swept away, and survivors are languishing in overcrowded and uninhabitable camps.”
While commending the federal government’s decision to dispatch a high-level delegation led by the Ministers of Information and Humanitarian Affairs to assess the damage, Hayab cautioned that such visits must translate into tangible action.
“Expressions of sympathy must be matched with urgent, concrete, and sustained responses. The federal and state governments, along with relevant agencies, must scale up emergency relief efforts”.
Hecalled for the immediate deployment of food, potable water, medical supplies, clothing, and temporary shelters for affected communities. It also recommended the provision of mobile health clinics and trauma counselors to assist victims, particularly in the most severely impacted areas.
“This tragedy is more than a natural disaster; it is a test of our collective humanity,” the statement read. “We urge churches, mosques, NGOs, corporate bodies, and well-meaning Nigerians to rise to the occasion through donations, advocacy, and compassionate outreach.”
Reaffirming its commitment to unity and humanitarian principles, Hayab emphasized that assistance must be extended to all victims irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social status.
“As we continue to pray for the bereaved and the safe return of the missing, we also call for national solidarity,” Rev. Hayab said. “Now is the time to show that we are one people bound by compassion, justice, and hope”.
