The Catholic Diocese of Yola has once again demonstrated its commitment to humanitarian service as it reached out to victims of the recent flood disaster in Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Through its development arm, the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), the Diocese distributed cash assistance to over fifty families affected by the disaster.
The relief presentation, which took place at the Catholic Secretariat in Yola, was personally led by the Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza, who handed over the sum of ₦37,000 in cash support to the beneficiaries.
The solemn yet uplifting event drew the presence of flood victims, parishioners, community members, and Church officials, all of whom came together in solidarity with the affected families.
Speaking during the presentation, Bishop Mamza described the flooding as “a painful reality that has caused widespread destruction in Yola South,” noting that many homes were submerged, properties destroyed, and several residents displaced from their communities.
While lamenting the devastation, the cleric explained that the financial support was not intended to replace all the victims had lost but rather to provide immediate succor and restore hope to those struggling in the aftermath of the disaster.
“The Church is deeply worried about the level of destruction caused by the floods. That is why we mobilized contributions from parishes across the Diocese to support our brothers and sisters in need. This token may not solve everything, but it will cushion the effect of the disaster, and most importantly, it is a sign of solidarity and love,” the Bishop said.
Bishop Mamza further used the occasion to raise awareness on the human factors that worsen flood disasters in Adamawa State.
He strongly cautioned residents against indiscriminate building on waterways, poor urban planning, and the neglect of drainage channels.
He also emphasized the need for regular environmental sanitation and compliance with government safety regulations, stressing that preventive measures remain the most effective solution to recurrent flooding in the state.
While urging the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the financial assistance, the Bishop appealed to wealthy individuals, corporate organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to support vulnerable communities during times of crisis. According to him, “When we share what we have, no matter how little, we ease the suffering of others and fulfill the true essence of humanity.”
Some of the recipients, including Madam Margaret Donah and Mr. Benesemeni Fimbar, expressed profound gratitude to the Diocese for extending help at a critical time.
They described the donation as timely and life-saving, given the financial hardships they are currently facing. In their words, the Bishop’s intervention was “not only a relief but also a reminder that they are not forgotten in their suffering.” The beneficiaries also offered prayers for Bishop Mamza, asking God to continue to bless and strengthen him in his consistent humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts.
Over the years, the Yola Diocese under Bishop Mamza’s leadership has built a strong reputation as a pillar of hope and resilience in Adamawa State. From conflict intervention to disaster response and community support, the Diocese has consistently demonstrated the Church’s social responsibility and moral duty to stand with the most vulnerable in society.