Amid “dire” Situation in Nigeria’s Pankshin Diocese, Local Ordinary Commissions Water Facility to Address Basic Needs

Pankshin, 12 October, 2025 / 9:51 PM

Bishop Michael Gobal Gokum of Nigeria’s Pankshin Diocese has decried the “dire” situation in his Episcopal See, attributed to years of conflict and economic instability, and has commissioned a water facility to address the people’s basic needs.

On the sidelines of commissioning a solar-powered water facility on October 10, Bishop Michael Gokum told ACI Africa that poverty remains “widespread” across his Diocese.

“Many families in my Diocese live without necessities such as clean water, food, and healthcare. Despite efforts by the Church and humanitarian organizations, fetching water had long meant trekking long distances and enduring health risks from contaminated sources,” the Nigerian Catholic Bishop explained.

He hailed the solar-powered boreholes – serving the communities of Bunga and Pusit – as a “lifeline” for residents.

“This project is a testimony of what can be achieved when humanity comes together for a common good. I appeal to you to take ownership of the boreholes, use them responsibly, and ensure they serve you and your children for many years to come,” Bishop Gokum said.

He noted that access to safe water is a fundamental human right. “Access to safe water is not a luxury but a basic necessity that upholds human dignity,” he said and added, “The Church remains committed to bringing relief and hope to people in need, regardless of religion or background.”

Describing the situation in Pankshin Diocese as “dire,” the 61-year-old Catholic Bishop, who has been at the helm of the Nigerian Episcopal See since his Episcopal Consecration in June 2014, said that many residents live in extreme deprivation, a reality that makes even spiritual ministry a challenge.

“You cannot preach to a hungry man; you cannot preach to someone who is not happy or who is suffering. If you help alleviate his problem, your preaching will make meaning to him,” he said, adding that faith without compassion is incomplete.

Over the years, the Catholic Church and humanitarian agencies have implemented food distribution, water, and shelter projects in Pankshin Diocese – initiatives that have benefitted thousands of displaced families.

In the October 10 interview, Bishop Gokum described these interventions as “wonderful” and “a blessing to the people.”

While commending international donors for facilitating some of the interventions, he cautioned against reliance on external aid as unsustainable and called on local philanthropists and citizens to take greater responsibility.

“Every support will one day come to an end. We want our people to do their best, so that they too can help others. There is nothing wrong if we also contribute to help elsewhere,” he said.

Bishop Gokum acknowledged the twin challenges of insecurity and economic hardship but expressed optimism that collective action could drive long-term recovery.

“With the crisis and the troubles here and there, you can only imagine that the people are doing their best, but the best is not yet there,” he said.

The Catholic Bishop also appealed to international partners and charitable organizations not to abandon the region, urging sustained support to alleviate the suffering of the people.

“We pray that those who are helping us will not be tired. But we continue to talk to our people so that they, too, will contribute,” he said.

Speaking earlier at the event, the Country Representative of the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), Eko Ekott, said the new water facility was inspired by “inclusiveness and humanity.”

“For every project we embark upon, it is not about religion or gender, but about humanity. We bring a message of peace, hope, and solidarity,” Ekott said.

He added that the water initiative aims to reduce waterborne diseases and ease the burden on women and children who often travel long distances for water.

“This partnership demonstrates the power of solidarity across nations. CAFOD will continue to work with local partners to promote peace, health, and development in crisis-affected regions,” Ekott said.

He added, “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have lost so much. Every effort counts in building communities where peace and development can thrive.”