Sequel to the ongoing rescue mission from various philanthropists over the devastating flood case that have displaced thousands in Maiduguri, Borno State, the United Nations has pledged urgent support to address the crisis.
The UN, alongside humanitarian organizations, has allocated over $8 million as support aid, including $6 million from the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund, to assist the affected victims.
On Monday, September 9, 2024, a devastating flood hit Borno State after being overwhelmed by heavy rainfall that led to the burst of the banks of the Alau Dam, located in the Konduga community.
Burying nearly half of the community, authorities say nearly one million people are affected, with about 200,000 displaced.
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, led a high-level delegation to assess the damage and sketch out possible support measures.
Fall noted that: “The flood-affected people are facing a crisis within a crisis, as the floods occurred during a severe food insecurity and malnutrition crisis.”
He emphasized the extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, and the increasing vulnerability of already displaced communities.
With floodwaters forcing thousands into overcrowded temporary camps like Asheik Jarma Primary School and Yerwa GGSS, immediate needs for food, clean water, sanitation, and shelter are critical.
The disaster has also severely impacted agriculture, destroying over 125,000 hectares of farmland and worsening food insecurity.
The UN’s emergency response includes airlifting food, trucking in clean water, and providing hygiene kits. Despite these efforts, the Humanitarian Response Plan for Nigeria remains underfunded, with only 46 percent of the required $927 million secured.
The UN underscores the urgent need for additional resources as floods continue to affect other states like Bauchi, Enugu, and Bayelsa.
FG warns of impending floods along Niger, Benue rivers
Techparley had earlier reported that the Federal Government had issued an alert concerning the possible overflow of flood along the Niger and Benue rovers sequel to the Maiduguri flood.
In a press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures, particularly in southern Nigeria, as a large volume of water moves downstream toward the Niger Delta.
Causes of flood
Although residents in Maiduguri have attributed the flood disaster to the collapse and overflow of the Alau Dam, Techparley correspondent, Nabilah Abdulgafar, has compiled common causes of flood for the purpose of public enlightenment. Find below:
- Heavy Rainfall: Top on the list is heavy rainfall from unpredictable weather conditions. This may include seasonal rains or storms, which can trigger flash floods.
- Overflowing Rivers: Residing close to rivers can heighten the risk of flood as climate change can lead a river to overflow its bank.
- Urbanization: Whether we like it or not, rapid urban growth can elevate flood risks. This happens because urbanisation gradually diminishes the natural land available for rainfall absorption.
How to prevent flood incidents in flood-prone areas
To mitigate this risk of flood arising from urbanisation, government should adopt green infrastructure by incorporating permeable pavements, green roofs, and rain gardens to enhance water absorption. Also, experts recommend that cities plan ahead by reserving natural waterways to safeguard and rehabilitate natural rivers and streams during runoffs.
Communities residing close to rivers and other large water bodies are advised to construct and upkeep levees or dams. When this is done adequately, these barriers will prevent floodwaters from encroaching onto homes.
While as humans, we have zero control over the heaviness of a rain, measures can be put in place to prepare ahead for heavy rain. One of these measures include regularly cleaning and maintaining gutters, storm drains, and other drainage systems to prevent blockages.
Safety tips during flooding
- Move valuables to higher floors or elevated areas.
- Unplug electrical appliances and switch off main power supply.
- Avoid walking or wading through floodwaters, as they may be contaminated or hide hazards.
- Keep phone lines open for emergency calls.
- As a motorist, avoid driving through floodwaters, as depth and currents can be unpredictable.
- If you must move, keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Stay away from downed power lines and electrical sources.
- Be cautious of wildlife, such as snakes, that may be displaced by floodwaters.
- Keep essential supplies, such as food, water, and first aid kits, readily available.
