The devastating floods in Maiduguri, Borno State, have left at least 414,000 people displaced and claimed the lives of 30 people, according to reports from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The floods, which began after the overflow of the Alau Dam following heavy rains, have been described as the worst in 30 years.
NEMA spokesperson Manzo Ezekiel confirmed the death toll and displacement figures, stating, “Around 414,000 people were displaced and are currently housed in nine IDP camps across the state.”
The flooding, which submerged 70% of Maiduguri, also damaged key city landmarks, including the Shehu of Borno’s palace, the state secretariat, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Additionally, the flood washed away 80% of the animals in the Sanda Kyarimi Park zoo and caused widespread damage to homes, schools, and commercial centers.
**Federal and State Government Interventions**
President Bola Tinubu expressed concern over the disaster, directing government agencies to expedite rescue and relief efforts. Vice President Kashim Shettima visited Maiduguri on Tuesday for an on-site assessment, while Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum revealed that over one million people had been affected by the floods. The federal government allocated N3 billion for rehabilitation efforts, with immediate cash and food distributions to displaced persons.
Zulum confirmed that N10,000 has been distributed to each affected household, and long-term strategies are being developed to prevent disease outbreaks.
**Jailbreak Amid Flooding**
The floods also damaged security barriers at the Maiduguri correctional facility, leading to a jailbreak. Authorities have recaptured three escapees, while a manhunt continues for others.
**Victims’ Struggles**
Despite the government’s efforts, many victims, including children and women, have been forced to sleep on streets. Some victims expressed concerns about conditions at IDP camps, preferring to remain on higher ground near public spaces.
A flood victim, Hassana Shaibu, shared, “We couldn’t locate the IDP camp in time, so we spent the night on the road.”
**Bayelsa State Also Flooded**
Heavy rains from Tuesday into Wednesday caused severe flooding in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, submerging multiple neighborhoods. The continuous rise of water levels in the Epie Creek and River Nun has worsened the situation. Poor town planning and inadequate drainage have been blamed for the extent of the flooding.
Residents of Bayelsa, such as environmentalist Alagoa Morris, reported extensive damage to homes and offices. Meanwhile, Benue State has also been grappling with the threat of snake bites in IDP camps, and authorities are actively working to fumigate the affected areas.
**Government Response and Future Plans**
Vice President Shettima assured that the federal government is committed to partnering with states to combat the challenges posed by natural disasters, including floods. President Tinubu recently approved N3 billion for each state to address flooding and other related challenges.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, also pledged the National Assembly’s support for the affected communities, emphasizing solidarity in addressing the crisis.
