The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has announced the commencement of an evacuation operation for residents affected by the severe flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State. The flooding, which was triggered by the collapse of a spillway at the Alau Dam, has inundated multiple communities in the metropolis, displacing many residents.
In a statement released by Zubaida Umar, the Director General of NEMA, the agency confirmed that it is not only evacuating people from the impacted areas but is also coordinating efforts to provide essential relief, including food, shelter, and medical assistance.
“In response to the unfortunate flooding situation in the Maiduguri metropolis of Borno State, which started last weekend and increased in the early hours of Monday, 9th September 2024, resulting from excess waters from the Alau Dam, we have begun the evacuation of residents of the affected communities and are working on the provision of food, shelter, and medical assistance,” Umar said.
The collapse of one of the dam’s spillways led to a significant surge in water levels, worsening the flooding in several neighborhoods. According to NEMA, the communities most affected by the flooding include Shehuri, parts of the Government Residential Area (G.R.A.), Gambomi, Budum, Bulabulin, Adamkolo, Millionaires Quarters, Monday Market, and Gwange.
To accommodate the displaced residents, the Borno State Government has opened the Bakassi Camp, which will serve as a temporary refuge for those impacted by the disaster. NEMA is working closely with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to ensure that those in the camp receive the necessary humanitarian aid.
The agency continues to monitor the situation and remains on high alert as it strives to mitigate further impacts of the flooding and extend help to affected families.
Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to follow safety instructions and cooperate with emergency teams during the ongoing evacuation process.
