THE YOBE State Government has praised Plan International, with support from the Zurich Foundation, for funding a six-day Psychological First Aid (PFA) workshop to bolster the state’s emergency response capabilities.
Dr. Muhammed Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), expressed gratitude during the training’s closing ceremony in Damaturu on Thursday.
He highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Governor Mai Mala Buni’s focus on enhancing disaster preparedness and response systems.
“We sincerely appreciate Plan International and the Zurich Foundation for supporting Gov. Buni’s vision,” Goje said. “This training is timely, as emergencies persist. While disasters may be unavoidable, psychological preparedness is key to mitigating long-term impacts.”
He stressed that disaster response goes beyond material aid: “Providing food or relief items alone isn’t enough. A person who loses family and property worth millions still endures trauma. Without psychological support, that trauma spreads, undermining community resilience.”
Goje called on other partners to integrate mental health support into humanitarian programs.
Training Impact and Future Plans
Dr. Nasiru Mustapha, Project Coordinator of the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance (representing Plan International), described the workshop as “highly successful.” The training equipped 47 master trainers to deliver Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) in Yobe’s healthcare facilities, particularly for flood-affected communities.
“We’ll also integrate psychosocial services into community health clinics,” Mustapha added, noting plans to expand the program to other zones in collaboration with SEMA and the Ministry of Environment. (NAN)
