The All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Public Schools has asked for the thorough fumigation of all schools utilized as Internally Displaced Persons camps for flood victims in certain parts of the country.
Some Nigerian states are now being flooded, and school resumption has been postponed.
For example, the Borno State Government has stated that schools will be closed for two weeks due to significant flooding in various villages.
Flooding in Maiduguri and other regions of the northeast has displaced approximately one million people.
The disaster is mostly the result of water being released from a dam in Cameroon, which overflowed into a dam in Maiduguri. This overflow, along with significant rains and the convergence of many rivers that pour into the area, has caused the rivers to break their banks.
According to ANCOPPS’s national president, Mr Musa Ibrahim, Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, and Kogi are among the states now facing flooding.
He emphasized that in flood-affected areas where schools were used as shelters, comprehensive fumigation of boarding facilities, classrooms, and offices was required to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
“In areas affected by flooding where schools have been converted into shelters for displaced individuals, it is crucial to address sanitation. Schools need thorough fumigation, particularly boarding facilities, classrooms, and administrative offices, to prevent the spread of communicable diseases resulting from the flooding and the influx of people.”
“Preparations should ensure that students and teachers are comfortable. In the rainy season, weeds often proliferate; post-fumigation, these should be removed to prevent mosquito breeding and other related issues.
While speaking on the need of preparing for the new session, he stated, “For the new academic term, it is necessary to focus on adequate preparation. Ensure that teaching resources and learning aids are available to support effective and engaging instruction, particularly for students starting their education in SS1 and JS1.
“Moreover, while government funding for school maintenance is typically modest, it should be increased to match the rising costs of materials and school management. Adequate financial support is crucial for maintaining and improving educational standards.”
Ibrahim explained that his family house in Maiduguri had also been overtaken by the flood.
He mentioned that the entire area had been deserted, and he had to use a canoe to reach the house, which was completely submerged.
“As I speak to you, I’ve just returned from my family house in Maiduguri. The situation is severe—flooding is so extensive that you have to swim or use boats and canoes to reach the house. The property is completely inundated, and almost everyone has evacuated. Schools are also flooded, leaving everyone stranded. This is why Maiduguri has extended the holiday break by two weeks.”
Dr. Deji Akinola, Director of Topdeal College in Ikorodu, Lagos, also stated that preparation for a new school session in Nigeria entails numerous critical procedures to ensure a smooth transition and a successful year.
He stated that economic and financial conditions are difficult in Nigeria, but he urged parents to enroll their children in schools that are within their means.
Akinola suggested, “Check the school’s requirements for the new session, including uniforms, books, and any special supplies. Ensure you have the latest information on what is needed. Buy required textbooks, stationery, and other school supplies well in advance. Make sure to get everything listed in the school’s supply list.
“Arrange for reliable transportation to and from school. If your child will be using public transportation or a school bus, confirm the details and routes ahead of time.”
