- Flood Break Extension: The Bayelsa State government has extended the 2024 flood break by one week, moving the resumption date for schools from November 18 to November 25 .
- School Closures: Some schools, like Richard Academy Otuoke and Godson Foundation Academy Agbere, have been shut down indefinitely due to non-compliance with the government’s flood break directive .
- Flood Impact: The flooding has destroyed homes, farmlands, fishing ponds, schools, markets, and hospitals across the state .
- Government Support: The Bayelsa State government is working to provide aid and support to affected communities, with UNICEF also contributing to the flood recovery efforts .
- Safety Precautions: The government has advised residents to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries during the flood.
Primary and secondary schools in Bayelsa State will have to wait another week before resuming classes due to severe flooding in the area. The state government has extended the 2024 flood break by one week, moving the resumption date from November 18 to November 25, to allow floodwaters to recede from most schools .
Many schools in the predominantly riverine state are still underwater or occupied by those affected by the flood. This has raised concerns among residents that the new resumption date may be shifted again if the floods persist.
Affected Areas:
- Biseni Kingdom: Displaced natives are taking refuge on bridges and oil locations.
- Tombs community and parts of Epie Kingdom in Yenagoa LGA.
- Adagbabiri in Sagbama LGA.
- Sampou in Kolokuma-Opokuma LGA.
- Communities in Ogbia LGA.
The Permanent Secretary in the state’s Ministry of Education, Simon-Peter Okene, emphasized the need for private schools to adhere to the officially approved school calendar and ensure all safety regulations are in place before resumption .