Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) disclosed, “over 400,000 persons have been affected” in the flooding in Maiduguri following the collapse of Alau Dam as a result of heavy rain.
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| City of Maiduguri in Borno State flooded after the collapse of Alau Dam. Photo: @TheZubaidaUmar |
In her update on “search and rescue operations”, Umar disclosed: “Though our work is far from being done and our round the clock emergency response, monitoring, and assessment continues, it’s important to provide some updates.
First is the relieving observation that the flood level in Maiduguri is receding, and normalcy is beginning to return to the metropolis.
It is also noteworthy that our search and rescue operation continues. Victims of the disaster are being sheltered temporarily at the 8 camps provided by the State Government.
Our preliminary assessment estimated the number of affected persons to be over 400,000.
With the support of the armed forces, paramilitary, civil society organizations, humanitarian partners and the good people of Borno State, the victims evacuated from the flooded areas that are not in the camps are being accommodated by their relations in safe higher areas.
As part of efforts to prevent the outbreak of water-borne diseases that are associated with flooding, we have deployed three water purification trucks to the city, and we are partnering with FUMMAN Chemicals for the distribution of chemicals for the purification of household water.
We have also alerted the people to be vigilant about harmful aquatic animals and those that find water environment conducive, particularly snakes.
While we assure the people that the government has started and will continue to mobilize available resources for their recovery, we will continue to provide every necessary support to ensure the safety and welfare of those within and outside camps.”
