Nigeria is experiencing its worst flooding in history, with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) providing a critical update on the situation.
According to NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar, the agency is working to address the devastating impact of the floods, which have affected multiple regions across the country.
Umar revealed that victims of the disaster are being sheltered temporarily at eight camps provided by the State Government.
NEMA’s preliminary assessment estimates that over 400,000 people have been affected by the floods. In addition to the temporary camps, victims evacuated from flooded areas are being accommodated by relatives in safe, higher areas, thanks to the support of the armed forces, paramilitary, civil society organizations, humanitarian partners, and the people of Borno State.
To prevent the outbreak of water-borne diseases associated with flooding, NEMA has deployed three water purification trucks to the city and is partnering with chemical companies to purify household water.
Umar also warned people to be vigilant about harmful aquatic animals, particularly snakes, that may be displaced by the flooding.
“We have also alerted the people to be vigilant about harmful aquatic animals and those that find water environment conducive, particularly snakes.”
The government has started mobilizing resources for the victims’ recovery and will continue to provide support to ensure their safety and welfare, both within and outside the camps, Umar assured. “While we assure the people that the government has started and will continue to mobilize available resources for their recovery, we will continue to provide every necessary support to ensure the safety and welfare of those within and outside camps.”
The flooding was caused by a broken spillway from the Alau Dam, which has exacerbated the devastating impact on the affected communities.
