The Rural Health Initiative for Improved Living (RHIFIL) has revitalized education at the Home for the Needy (HfN) Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Edo State by renovating six classrooms for primary school pupils.
What were once dusty, dilapidated blocks have been transformed into bright, safe, and child-friendly learning spaces.
Commissioned by officials from the Edo State Ministry of Health, the project is being hailed as a model for NGO-led interventions in healthcare and education within displaced communities.
A Vision Rooted in Compassion
Speaking at the project launch, Rev. Mrs. Josephine Kpere Daibo, President of RHIFIL, said the initiative began after observing the poor learning conditions at the camp, dusty floors, cracked walls, and a lack of desks and chairs.
“Our hearts were moved by what we saw. We decided to renovate and plaster two school blocks comprising six classrooms to give these children a better future,” Rev. Daibo, stated.
A Local teacher Spokesperson of the school, Mr. Mathew Olisa praised Rev. Daibo’s determination, saying:
“She has faith like her pastor, Archbishop Benson Idahosa. Once she decides to act, she believes it will work.”
Rev. Mrs. Josephine Kpere Daibo, President of RHIFIL with children at the IDP school in Edo state.
Transforming Lives Beyond Classrooms
The new classrooms now provide a conducive environment for hundreds of children pursuing primary education at the camp, a significant shift from the unsafe and uncomfortable conditions they once faced.
Speaking further, Rev Daibo noted that, “This is not RHIFIL’s first major project at the IDP camp. In 2015, the organisation completed and handed over 15 modern water-system toilets designed for boys at the camp, improving sanitation and hygiene for hundreds of residents”.
“Our goal is to provide comprehensive health education, diagnosis, and treatment to over 300 individuals in each community, ensuring access to essential healthcare for those in need,” Rev. Daibo added.
Community Impact and Global Support
RHIFIL’s impact continues to attract both local and international donors, including the Babos Foundation (USA), which regularly supports food and welfare programs through RHIFIL.
The management of the Home for the Needy Foundation has commended RHIFIL’s contribution to displaced families, describing Rev. Daibo as “a mother to many, a meticulous leader, and a visionary humanitarian.”
RHIFIL’s renovation of classrooms at the Home for the Needy IDP Camp in Edo State is giving displaced children a chance to learn and thrive in a safe and conducive environment
Foundation Pastor Solomon Folorunsho added: “Her good works have earned her a name that will not be forgotten by the displaced persons she serves.”
Hope Rising from Uhogua
Located in Uhogua, about 25 kilometres from Benin City, the Home for the Needy (HfN) IDP Camp tells a story of resilience and hope. Children who once fled violence are now becoming doctors, lawyers, engineers, and educators, proof that education can turn trauma into opportunity.
Founded in 1992 to care for orphans and vulnerable children, the camp became a refuge for conflict survivors from northern Nigeria after 2012.
Today, it shelters over 3,000 displaced persons, providing food, healthcare, and free education, much of it supported by local farming and community partnerships.
