Since Monday night, severe flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, has caused widespread destruction and chaos. The floods have inundated several key areas of the city, leading to a significant displacement of residents and the emergence of dangerous animals in affected regions.
Notably, crocodiles, snakes, and other hazardous wildlife have been reported in areas like the Post Office and Monday Market, which are situated close to the Shehu Kyarimi Park (Zoo). The extent of the flooding has been extensive. Apart from the Shehu’s palace, numerous other significant locations have been submerged.
These include the University of Maiduguri, its Teaching Hospital, and various residential and commercial areas such as Gwange, Moromoro, State Lowcost, the 500 Abbagana housing estate, the popular Monday Market, Lagos Streets, the NUJ Centre, and the Government House.
The floods have caused immense damage, displacing millions of residents and destroying property valued in the billions of naira.
In the wake of the flooding, thousands of people have been seen evacuating their homes, taking their belongings to safer areas such as Bulumkutu, Gomari Airport, and Tashan Baga. The affected individuals are in urgent need of assistance, and there is a growing call for government intervention to provide relief and support.
In response to the crisis, President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for the immediate evacuation of residents from the flood-affected areas. He has pledged the Federal Government’s support and instructed relevant agencies to accelerate rescue efforts.
A statement from the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that while the damage assessment is ongoing, the President is committed to providing aid. President Tinubu has also expressed his condolences to the people of Borno State, particularly to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods due to the disaster caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who visited Maiduguri to assess the situation firsthand, described the flooding as the most catastrophic in over three decades. He emphasized that the scale of the disaster exceeds previous experiences, highlighting the growing threat of climate change.
Shettima pointed out that Nigeria faced similar flooding crises in 2012, 2018, and 2022, and emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to address these recurring challenges. The Federal Government remains committed to mobilizing all necessary resources to support the affected communities and ensure their safety.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has also weighed in, describing the floods as a national calamity. He has expressed his sympathy for the victims and hopes that the relief efforts by various governments will help those who have lost family members and their means of livelihood.
Former Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano State has called on the Federal Government to provide urgent intervention in Maiduguri, echoing the sentiments of concern and support.
Adding to the challenge, Governor Babagana Zulum is currently out of the country, and his Deputy is on annual leave, leaving local officials to manage the crisis under difficult circumstances. The Police Public Relations Officer of the Borno Command, Kenneth Daso, has urged the public to remain vigilant as police and other relevant stakeholders work tirelessly to protect lives and property during this trying period.
In addition to the immediate response, the Federal Government is also addressing the situation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Maiduguri, which has been severely affected by the flooding. Efforts are underway to securely transfer inmates from this facility to safer locations.
The Nigerian Prison Service is collaborating with other security agencies to ensure the safety of the inmates and to provide necessary assistance to those impacted by the disaster.
Despite initial challenges, the authorities are committed to maintaining order and supporting the affected communities throughout this crisis.
The ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated disaster response and support to mitigate the effects of such devastating events.
