Severe flooding has ravaged Borno State in northeastern Nigeria, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The disaster, which has affected nearly one million residents, follows the collapse of the Alau Dam, causing widespread destruction across Maiduguri, the state capital. At least 30 people have been confirmed dead, with fears that the casualty figure could be much higher, as many, including children, remain missing.
The flooding, triggered by heavy rains and the overflow of the Alau Dam, swept through communities, submerging homes, farmlands, and critical infrastructure. Key locations affected include the Monday Market, Gwange, Shehuri, and the Shehu of Borno’s Palace. In a particularly grim development, the Gwange cemetery was destroyed, with coffins and corpses seen floating in the streets.
Governor Babagana Zulum, who visited the Bakassi Camp to distribute aid to displaced persons, reported that one-quarter of Maiduguri is underwater, with the health sector in critical condition. He expressed concerns about the spread of waterborne diseases due to the flooding of sewage systems and noted that a health emergency committee has been set up to mitigate potential outbreaks. The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) was also affected, with patients left stranded.
As the death toll climbs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been actively involved in rescue efforts. The agency confirmed that 719 people had been rescued from rooftops, trees, and floodwaters. Additional search and rescue personnel have been deployed, and clean drinking water is being provided to displaced residents to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.
In response to the crisis, the federal government has provided a N3 billion relief fund to assist victims and address the challenges brought by the flood. Governor Zulum has also called for the reconstruction and upgrade of the Alau Dam to prevent future disasters and pledged to demolish illegal structures blocking waterways.
Meanwhile, the flooding has caused severe disruptions to the local economy. Major markets in Maiduguri, including grain, fruit, and vegetable depots, have been submerged, leading to a sharp rise in food prices as supplies dwindle. Residents are struggling to access food and essential commodities, with many business premises closed due to the destruction.
Rescue operations are ongoing, but the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined. As waters begin to recede, displaced residents return to find their homes destroyed and their livelihoods in ruins.
Zulum assured citizens that reconstruction efforts would begin soon, and measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence of such a catastrophe.
Despite the immense challenges, community efforts are emerging, with volunteers like Fatima Satomi providing meals for displaced residents. However, with thousands still stranded and in need of urgent assistance, the state faces an uphill battle to recover from one of the worst floods in its history.
With additional reports from Reuters & Daily Trust
