On September 10, 2024, severe flooding in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, led to significant displacement and damage. Major roads, homes, and shops across Maiduguri and parts of Jere Local Government Area have been submerged.
The floodwaters have also impacted key public facilities, including the Shehu’s Palace, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo. A prison wall in the Custom area was breached, resulting in the drowning of some inmates and the escape of others.
Major roads, including the Post-Office Roundabout—an important transportation link—are now underwater, disrupting vehicular movement within the city. The flood has affected numerous areas such as Abbaganaram, Custom Road, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, Cattle Market in Old Maiduguri, Gwange, and Lagos Street.
The Sanda Kyarimi Zoo has also been heavily impacted, with General Manager Ali Abatcha reporting that 80% of the zoo’s animals have died, and the rest have fled into the city. Thousands of residents, predominantly women and children, living in flood-prone areas have been displaced. Many have sought refuge under trees or moved to safer parts of the city with their belongings.
In addition to heavy rainfall, the flooding has been exacerbated by a breach in the Alo Dam, a crucial water source for Maiduguri, which draws from River Ngadda in Cameroon and Lake Chad.
Federal Government Response
In response to the crisis, President Bola Tinubu has directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide assistance to flood victims in Maiduguri. President Tinubu, through a statement from his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, expressed deep concern for those affected by the flood and extended condolences to the state’s residents and those who have lost loved ones and their livelihoods.
The President has called for the immediate evacuation of individuals from the most affected areas and has pledged federal support to address the urgent humanitarian needs of the displaced. He assured Governor Babagana Zulum of the Federal Government’s commitment to mobilize resources and assist during this challenging period.
VIDEO:
Flood Displaces Residents in Maiduguri: Borno State Capital Hit Hard pic.twitter.com/Q1ki9CjTnc
— Naijalog(dot)com (@Naijalog) September 10, 2024