The President of the Senate, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Afeez Akinteye, expressed his deepest condolences to victims of the recent floods that swept through several parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The group also called for long-term solutions to this crisis as it implored the Federal Government to create a comprehensive plan that will address the immediate needs of the displaced.
In a statement on Wednesday, Akinteye conveyed heartfelt sympathy of the association to the students and staff of Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture in Maiduguri who were also severely affected by the flooding that led to the displacement of many citizens of the state.
According to NANS, the disruption of lives, the destruction of homes, and the forced displacement of thousands within the community are tragic and deeply unsettling, especially for students who are striving to achieve their academic goals.
The statement read,” This unfortunate incident has disrupted not only the lives of residents but has also severely affected the educational aspirations of many young people.
“Education is a fundamental pillar of our society, and any event that threatens the ability of students to learn and thrive must be addressed with urgency and compassion.
“Our thoughts are with all those who have been displaced, and we express our deepest sympathies to the students and their families during this difficult time.”
The association called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to take immediate action through the National Emergency Management Agency, to mobilise resources and deploy necessary assistance to the affected communities in Maiduguri, with special attention to the students of Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture.
NANS called for urgent support for the students who have been displaced from both their homes and their institutions to ensure the safety and continuity of their education.
The students group advocated for temporary shelters, food, medical care, and psychosocial support must be provided to help them navigate this difficult period.
“Moreover, we call for long-term solutions to this crisis. We implore the Federal Government to create a comprehensive plan that not only addresses the immediate needs of displaced students but also ensures their safe return to academic activities as soon as possible. Education is the bedrock of national development, and it is crucial that displaced students are not left behind due to circumstances beyond their control. Efforts should be made to create alternative learning environments where students can continue their education, even as the crisis is being managed.
“We also urge the state government and other relevant authorities to collaborate with NEMA and humanitarian organizations to facilitate the delivery of aid and relief materials to all those affected, particularly students. It is essential that all hands are on deck to restore normalcy and ensure that the impact of this crisis on students and the wider community is mitigated,” NANS averred.
