In early September, Nigeria’s Borno State experienced devastating flooding when the Alo Dam broke under the pressure of unprecedented rains. As a result, over 5 million people have been displaced, struggling to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of this natural disaster. For those living in the Diocese of Maiduguri, life was already difficult due to the ongoing violence caused by Boko Haram, a terrorist organization that has plagued northern Nigeria since 2009. The group has targeted Christians, and Nigeria has tragically become the most dangerous country in the world for Catholic priests and missionaries.
A reflection of Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme of Maiduguri, Nigeria, from 2018. (CNS photo/Tyler Orsburn)
Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme, who leads the Diocese of Maiduguri, has sent us a desperate appeal for help, that we now share with you. The Diocese’s meager resources are stretched to their limits as missionaries work around the clock to provide aid. Despite their own hardships, they continue to serve the people with unwavering faith, offering shelter, food, and medical care. But they cannot do this alone.
As Catholics, we are called to stand with our brothers and sisters in their time of need. Bishop Doeme is asking for our financial support so that the Diocese of Maiduguri can continue to provide essential aid to the victims of this catastrophe. Women and children are particularly vulnerable, facing increased risks of violence and disease, while the community struggles with the lack of food, shelter, and basic medical care.
How You Can Help
By donating today, you can directly help the Diocese of Maiduguri meet these urgent needs:
- Provide food: Families already struggling with hunger now have barely enough to eat.
- Offer shelter: Thousands have lost their homes and remain displaced weeks after the flood.
- Deliver essential medical care: Preventing outbreaks of cholera, malaria, typhoid, and malnutrition is crucial.
- Supply clothing: Many fled with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Your generosity brings not only physical relief but also hope, solidarity, and the love of Christ to those in desperate need. As we are reminded in the Gospel of Matthew, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
Together, we can make a profound difference. Please join us in bringing relief to the people of Maiduguri.
