The Borno State government has opened several relief camps in Maiduguri to shelter thousands of residents left stranded by severe flooding, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed.
Surajo Garba, the Zonal Acting Coordinator for NEMA’s North East Zone, said the devastating floods were caused by heavy rainfall and the collapse of the Alao Dam, which has left many communities submerged.
Garba urged residents in flood-prone and riverine areas to evacuate immediately for their safety. “Thousands of people are stranded and trapped in water. We are working with other stakeholders to rescue those affected,” he stated.
He added that the state government has established multiple displaced persons camps, including Bakassi camp, Dalori camp, and other locations such as public schools and stadiums on higher ground, to accommodate the displaced.
“The situation is saddening and pathetic. We pray things get better in the next couple of days,” Garba said. He also noted that NEMA has sent an emergency request to its headquarters for essential supplies like non-food items to assist the affected residents.
The flooding has impacted more than 50 areas, including Kalari, Budum, Millionaire’s Quarters, parts of the GRA, Allamin Dagash, Gwange, and Bulabulin, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
