The Federal Government has initiated the evacuation of residents from communities affected by severe flooding in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) announced on Tuesday that it is also coordinating the provision of food, shelter, and medical aid to those impacted.

This devastating flood, which began last weekend and worsened on Monday, September 9, 2024, was triggered by the collapse of a spillway at Alau Dam, causing a surge of water to flood downstream areas. Among the affected neighborhoods are Shehuri, parts of the Government Residential Area (G.R.A.), Gambomi, Budum, Bulabulin, Adamkolo, Millionaires Quarters, Monday Market, and Gwange.

In response to the disaster, the Borno State Government has opened Bakassi Camp to house displaced residents. NEMA, in collaboration with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency, is actively providing humanitarian aid to those seeking shelter in the camp.

This emergency response follows an order from President Tinubu, who directed NEMA to take swift action in assisting flood victims. In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed his deep concern and offered condolences to the people of Borno State, particularly to families who lost loved ones and livelihoods due to the dam’s overflow.

The flooding has displaced many residents, leading to significant financial losses as businesses, schools, and other services in the region came to a halt. Key roads, homes, and shops in Maiduguri and parts of Jere Local Government Area have been submerged. Public infrastructures such as the Shehu’s Palace, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo have also been heavily impacted.

In a tragic development, floodwaters breached the walls of a prison near the Custom area, leading to reports of some inmates drowning while others fled for safety. Major roads, including the Post-Office Roundabout, which connects several key locations in the city, remain impassable due to flooding. Other affected areas include Abbaganaram, Custom Road, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, and Lagos Street.

The Sanda Kyarimi Zoo was also severely impacted, with the zoo’s general manager, Ali Abatcha, reporting that 80% of the animals have died, while others have escaped into the city.

Thousands of people, particularly women and children living in flood-prone areas, have been displaced, with many seeking temporary refuge along the city's roadsides and under trees. While some have begun relocating to safer areas within and outside Maiduguri, the crisis continues to unfold as emergency services work to manage the disaster.