In April, 2026, two wells for drinking water were drilled in Nigeria with the support of the Russian Orthodox Church.
The work was carried out as part of humanitarian aid efforts for those affected by the attack by Islamic terrorists on the Christian village of Turan in early March. Among the Christians killed were two parishioners of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Funds were raised on the official website of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa to support residents who were affected and lost relatives in this tragedy.
The funeral for the victims took place on March 17. The survivors were forced to leave their homes and flee to neighboring settlements.
A critical situation emerged in the temporary refugee settlements: people were suffering from an acute shortage of drinking water. On March 27, geological surveys were conducted, and over the following month, wells were drilled and water pumps were installed.
“On behalf of all those in our care, we express our deepest gratitude to Metropolitan Konstantin and all the kind people from Russia who helped us in our time of need,” said Archimandrite Niphont (Hule), the rector of the community.
In addition, people who lost their homes found themselves on the brink of starvation. Various food items were purchased for them.
Medical assistance for the wounded and sick also continues. Tuition has been paid for schoolchildren from needy families—schools in Turan were closed following the incident, and students were transferred to other educational institutions.
New traditional homes made of clay and wood have been built for the displaced persons. Construction of a temporary church has begun at the site of the new settlement.
The Chairman Yaav Traditional Council, Chief Abeebe Msuega Simon, sent a letter of gratitude, which states, in part: “Thank you for your kindness to us, may the good Lord prosper the Russian Orthodox Church and all donors for their kindness to us.”
Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa
