BY FAIZA JIBRIN, SEPTEMBER 12, 2024 | 10:40PM

In the wake of a devastating flood, thousands of families in Maiduguri have been forced to abandon their homes, seeking refuge in makeshift shelters, schools, and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

One of the major camps providing a haven to women, children and vulnerable people is the Bakassi IDP camp, which now houses people from various communities severely affected by the floods.

However, while the camp offers sanctuary, the journey to safety is far from straightforward for many flood victims.

For families like that of Fatima Abubakar, a pregnant woman with four children, the ordeal has been harrowing.

In an emotional interview, Fatima expressed her distress over the flooding, recounting how she and her children initially fled to a relative's home, only to be chased away by rising waters once again.

Now at the Bakassi IDP camp, Fatima faces new uncertainty, she has yet to receive the necessary identification card required for entry into the camp, leaving her unsure of where she and her children will sleep.

'I don't know where to go, and I don't have the identification card,' she said, her voice filled with exhaustion.

Fatima's story echoes that of many others struggling to rebuild their lives.

Zainab, a woman displaced from Gwange Sabon Layi, praised Governor Babagana Zulum for his efforts in bringing food, money, and comforting words to the victims.

However, she lamented that these efforts, while appreciated, were not enough.

'I haven’t even eaten, the food isn't enough to everyone'Zainab said, her voice reflecting the desperation felt by many.

She shared how she had to send her children to live with relatives because they could not accommodate her entire family. For now, the camp is her only option, even if it doesn’t offer immediate relief.

Others, like Kaltum, who arrived at the camp the previous day, spoke of the toll the disaster has taken on their health and well-being.

Her grandmother is currently receiving medical treatment after falling ill due to the unsanitary conditions brought on by the flood.

'The water has affected us in ways we never imagined, my grandmother is currently in the hospice because this flood' Kaltum shared, her face showing the strain of weeks of uncertainty.

However, despite the state government, non governmental organizations, and other support, victims urged for more assistance as the number of displaced persons continues to rise.

Bakassi IDP camp has become a hub for the displaced, with over 14,000 people seeking shelter there, according to Hon. Grema Terab, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor.

He commended the efforts of the government, non-governmental organizations, and private individuals for their continuous support.

'For decades, Maiduguri has faced challenges, first the insurgency, and now the floods, but very soon, this too shall pass, as we are known for our resilient nature' he said

Despite the overwhelming conditions, hope still flickers among the displaced.

Terab lauded the solidarity shown by Nigerians from all corners of the country, adding that their prayers and kindness have given the people of Maiduguri strength in their darkest hour.

'We’ve seen the support, the kind words, and the prayers pouring in, and we are grateful, we’re happy and optimistic.' he said his tone hopeful

Various government agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), along with organizations like Save the Children and the Borno State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), and others have stepped in to provide much needed relief.

They have brought cooked food, clean water, and medical assistance to the camp, striving to alleviate the dire circumstances faced by the displaced.

Yet, for families like Fatima’s and Zainab’s, the journey is far from over.

As Maiduguri endures another chapter of hardship, the resilience of its people stands as a testament to their will to survive.

But beyond the food and prayers, these victims yearn for stability and a return to the lives they once knew, a life beyond the floodwaters, beyond the IDP camps, where they can once again call a place home.