The recent flooding across Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of 259 individuals out of the 1,048,312 people affected by the disaster.
The flood, which has impacted 29 states and 172 local government areas, has also displaced 625,239 residents.
During a National Emergency Coordination Forum meeting in Abuja, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), provided an update on the situation. She emphasized that while the flooding has caused severe damage, including in Borno State where search and rescue operations are ongoing, efforts are being made to mitigate the impacts.
NEMA’s earlier flood predictions highlighted that 33 states and 135 local government areas were at high risk from July to September 2024, and 19 states and 44 local government areas were expected to be at risk from October to November.
The flooding has also led to 2,390 injuries, affected 125,800 hectares of land, and damaged 94,491 houses. Mrs. Umar assured that the Federal Government, through NEMA, will provide necessary relief to those affected, including in Maiduguri, where 37 deaths have been reported.
In Maiduguri, 10 internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps have been established, and support efforts include the deployment of inflatable boats, water purifiers, and mobile clinics. NEMA has also engaged local divers for rescue operations.
Mr. Trond Jenson, Head of UNOCHA in Nigeria, reported that $6 million has been allocated for flood response in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) States. He outlined the urgent needs for cooked meals, clean water, shelter, and sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks. He also highlighted the ongoing food and nutrition crisis and called for flexible donor support to address these challenges.
Jenson emphasized that, despite the flooding, Nigeria’s government and international partners are working to provide essential aid and manage the situation effectively. He noted the importance of resource mobilization and planning for potential future flooding, particularly in Adamawa State.
