President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the severe flooding in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, and has ordered the immediate evacuation of residents.
This flood, described as the worst in recent history, has displaced thousands of residents.
Also, severely impacted critical facilities such as the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, a section of the government house, and the post office.
The flooding, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, struck Maiduguri in the early hours of Tuesday.
The dam, which had been at full capacity for a week, led to widespread inundation, submerging areas of the city, including the Emir’s palace.
Wild animals from the state zoo, including snakes, crocodiles, and ostriches, were displaced and roamed the streets.
The flood severely affected areas such as Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin, where homes were swept away and streets turned into rivers.
Accelerate Evacuation
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to accelerate the evacuation and assist those displaced.
The statement also assured Governor Babagana Umara Zulum that the Federal Government was prepared to mobilise resources to address the immediate humanitarian needs in the region.
The statement read: “The worst flooding in recent decades has displaced thousands of residents and affected facilities such as the Post Office and the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital”.
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Borno State.
Particularly to families who have lost their livelihoods due to the disaster triggered by the Alau Dam overflow.
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He emphasised the urgency of evacuating affected areas and assured Governor Zulum of the Federal Government’s commitment to providing support to meet the immediate needs of the affected population.
Tinubu also instructed NEMA to assist flood victims.
Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed the FCT for Maiduguri to assess the damage firsthand.
During his visit, Shettima will evaluate the extent of the flooding, engage with displaced residents, and oversee ongoing relief efforts.
Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, stated that “the Vice President will also meet with state and local government officials to coordinate a comprehensive response plan”.