Borno Flood Crisis: Federal Government Opens IDP Camps as Maiduguri Faces Severe Deluge
The recent flooding in Borno State has led to widespread displacement, with 70% of Maiduguri, the state capital, submerged under water. The Nigerian Correctional Service has recaptured three inmates who escaped during the crisis, and the Sanda Kyarimi Park zoo has reported the death of 80% of its animals due to the disaster, marking Borno’s worst flooding event in three decades.
President Bola Tinubu, currently abroad, has called for the immediate evacuation of residents from the worst-hit areas. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reports that extensive flooding has affected numerous locations including the palace of the Shehu of Borno, state secretariat, post office, and major markets.
NEMA spokesperson Manzo Ezekiel noted that areas previously considered high ground are now underwater, with about 70% of Maiduguri affected. The flooding intensified rapidly, catching many residents off guard.
Ezekiel explained that the flood resulted from the overflow of Alau Dam after heavy rains. With the city’s flat terrain contributing to the water’s spread, NEMA is focusing on search, rescue, and support efforts. While the exact number of displaced people remains unclear, it is estimated that approximately 70% of Maiduguri’s over 800,000 residents may be impacted.
In response to the crisis, the state government has established three Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, including the larger Bakasi Camp, to accommodate those displaced. NEMA teams are working with state emergency officials to provide necessary support.
The Borno State Emergency Management Agency described the situation as dire. Director-General Barkindo Muhammad reported being trapped while on a rescue mission and highlighted the severe impact on homes, schools, and businesses.
President Tinubu has expressed deep concern and instructed relevant agencies to expedite rescue and relief efforts. He has assured that the federal government will collaborate with the state to address immediate humanitarian needs.
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in Maiduguri to assess the damage and oversee relief operations. He will also meet with state and local officials to coordinate the response.
Former Senate Chief Whip Ali Ndume and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abass have called for urgent federal intervention, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate relief.
Minister of Information Mohammed Idris and former Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar have both urged for accelerated relief efforts, acknowledging the extensive damage and humanitarian impact.
The Arewa Consultative Forum has expressed condolences and called for swift assistance to affected communities, highlighting the urgent need for food, shelter, and medical aid.
The crisis has already claimed at least 229 lives this year, displaced around 386,239 people, and affected numerous properties, farms, and infrastructure, primarily in the northern region of Nigeria.
