Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abuja (Agenzia Fides) - In the run-up to the presidential elections next February, violent floods have killed hundreds and displaced millions. These are the worst floods in Nigeria in a decade. It has been raining continuously for days in 33 of the 36 states, aggravating the already precarious situation caused by ongoing armed conflicts, violence and kidnappings (see Fides, 18/10/2022).
Millions of families are currently suffering from severe food shortages leading to acute malnutrition and disease. The food security and nutritional status of the population, particularly women and children, have been severely impacted by the conflicts, the long-term consequences of confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ever-increasing costs of staple foods, fuel and fertilizers. In addition, the conflicts have left many families without access to their farmland and thus the harvest, and have created a wave of internally displaced people in need. In addition there are the effects of climate change, with floods damaging crops, vegetables, livestock and more.
During the general audience on October 19, Pope Francis also remembered the victims of the heavy rains that are devastating Nigeria. The Pope asks for prayers for all those who have lost their lives and are being hit by the devastating catastrophe. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 19/10/2022)
