Yobe flood victims support kicks off with cash-for-rent aid to 102 families in Potiskum, as YOSEMA expands humanitarian efforts across affected communities

Yobe flood victims support efforts are gaining momentum as the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) begins disbursing cash-for-rent assistance to 102 households displaced by the recent flood disaster in Potiskum town.

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In a statement released Monday, YOSEMA Executive Secretary Dr. Mohammad Goje said the initiative aims to offer safe and dignified shelter for over 600 displaced residents for the next two months.

“Our goal is to restore dignity and stability to affected families,” Goje said. “We have linked them with local agents to help them secure housing quickly.”

The displaced individuals had been temporarily housed at Sabon Gari Primary School after torrential rains and floods left homes in ruins.

In addition to rent support, beneficiaries will receive blankets, mats, food, mosquito nets, soaps, and other essentials to ease their transition.

As of August 16, YOSEMA had registered seven of the 21 affected communities, covering 361 households and 2,634 individuals.

Registration and validation continue in the remaining areas. The agency is also expanding its outreach beyond Potiskum.

On Tuesday, August 19, it will provide cash support to 111 disaster-affected residents in Jakusko LGA, following windstorms and farmer-herder clashes in Garin Maji, Saminaka, and Amshi.

Goje emphasized that these efforts reflect the state government’s commitment to humanitarian relief, transparency, and peacebuilding.

“Governor Mai Mala Buni has directed us to adopt a proactive disaster response, with early warning systems and stronger community resilience strategies,” he added.

YOSEMA also acknowledged the continued support of key partners including UNICEF, WHO, NEMA, Centre for Civilians in Conflict, IOM, ICRC, and NEDC.

The flood, caused by heavy rainfall on Saturday, claimed one life and destroyed multiple homes in Potiskum.

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Relief efforts now focus on rehabilitation and risk mitigation for vulnerable communities across Yobe State.