The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of residents in communities affected by the severe flooding that has engulfed Maiduguri, Borno State’s capital.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed on Tuesday that it is providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to the displaced victims.
In a statement, NEMA described the devastating flooding, which began over the weekend and intensified on Monday, September 9, 2024, as a result of excess water from the Alau Dam.
The collapse of one of the dam’s spillways significantly increased water flow downstream, exacerbating the flooding in surrounding areas.
The affected communities include Shehuri, parts of the Government Residential Area (GRA), Gambomi, Budum, Bulabulin, Adamkolo, Millionaires Quarters, Monday Market, and Gwange.
As part of its relief efforts, NEMA announced that the Borno State Government has opened the Bakassi Camp to house those displaced by the flood.
“We are working, alongside the Borno State Emergency Management Agency, in providing humanitarian assistance to the distressed in the camp,” NEMA’s statement read.
President Bola Tinubu ordered NEMA to take immediate action following the disaster.
In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed deep concern about the flooding and extended his condolences to the affected families.
“President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the state, especially to the families that lost their loved ones and means of livelihood due to the disaster triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam,” Onanuga’s statement said.
FirstNews reported how the flooding displaced numerous residents and caused millions of naira in losses, with business activities, including schools, coming to a standstill. Major roads, houses, and shops across Maiduguri and parts of Jere Local Government Area have been submerged.
The flood also affected critical public infrastructure, including the Shehu’s Palace, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo. Tragically, a prison wall near the Custom area collapsed, leading to the reported drowning of some inmates, while others escaped for safety.
Floodwaters have cut off key roads within Maiduguri, including the Post-Office Roundabout, which links major areas of the city. Other affected locations include Abbaganaram, Custom Road, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, and Lagos Street.
The Sanda Kyarimi Zoo was severely impacted, with its General Manager, Ali Abatcha, reporting that 80% of the animals were killed, and the rest escaped into the city.
Thousands of residents, primarily women and children, have been displaced from their homes along waterways and flood-prone areas. Many of the displaced have sought refuge under trees or on roadsides, while others have relocated to safer areas both within and outside the state.
The Federal Government’s response aims to alleviate the suffering of those affected, while NEMA continues to coordinate efforts to mitigate further damage.