Yola Catholic Diocese launches programmes for N’East IDPs

The Catholic Diocese of Yola has initiated a comprehensive program of sports and cultural competitions for internally displaced persons (IDPs) across 12 camps in Nigeria's North-East region. This initiative, led by Bishop Dami Mamza and supported by Mission Take Heart Nigeria, commenced on Sunday with the goal of fostering psychosocial healing, social cohesion, and community recovery among those affected by insurgency.

Rev. Fr. Maurice Kwaranga, Nigeria Director of Mission Take Heart, stated that the program is made possible by support from U.S.-based missionary organizations. He explained that the activities are designed to rekindle hope, enhance emotional well-being, and provide opportunities for displaced individuals to rebuild their lives after years of conflict and displacement. "A renewed sense of optimism is emerging across the 12 internally displaced persons camps as summer activities officially commence, marking a significant step toward restoring stability and emotional wellbeing for thousands of families uprooted by conflict," Kwaranga said.

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A renewed sense of optimism is emerging across the 12 internally displaced persons camps as summer activities officially commence, marking a significant step toward restoring stability and emotional wellbeing for thousands of families uprooted by conflict.

The program emphasizes psychosocial support and informal education as crucial elements for community recovery. It aims to create safe spaces where children, youths, and adults can express themselves, develop resilience, and acquire practical skills for long-term healing. "The summer programme places psychosocial support and informal education at the heart of community recovery. It is designed to help residents rebuild confidence and regain a sense of normalcy," Kwaranga added.

Participants will engage in group counseling sessions, creative workshops, and learning circles to help them reconnect with peers and re-establish routines disrupted by displacement. The cleric highlighted that sports and cultural activities, such as football matches, relay races, and traditional dance competitions, serve as effective tools for stress relief, teamwork, and preserving cultural identity, which is considered vital for emotional recovery. These activities help participants strengthen their sense of belonging and collective resilience.

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The summer programme places psychosocial support and informal education at the heart of community recovery. It is designed to help residents rebuild confidence and regain a sense of normalcy.