The government of the United States of America has offered humanitarian assistance to victims of the devastating flooding, which recently occurred in Maiduguri.
A statement issued by the US Embassy in Abuja on Monday, September 23, 2024, said the US is deeply saddened by the devastating floods that have affected Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State, resulting in loss of life, destruction of property, and the displacement of many families.
“We extend our condolences to the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this disaster.
“In response, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing assistance to the affected victims through UN agencies and our implementing partners,” the statement said.
It added that through the World Food Programme(WFP), the USAID is providing hot meal rations in four camps hosting internally displaced persons and has reached more than 67,000 individuals in the past few days.
“The WFP is also providing emergency nutrition assistance to pregnant and lactating women, including children under five years old,” it added.
The embassy further said that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) was using an initial three million dollars in USAID funding to address flood needs across the country.
It said USAID was also supporting the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) in conducting food airlifts to inaccessible areas in Borno and Maiduguri city to address urgent needs.
“Other USAID-funded partners, including international and local NGOs, are repurposing existing funds to provide critical assistance to individuals affected by the flooding in Maiduguri and neighbouring Jere Local Government Area.
“We commend the bravery and resilience of the people of Maiduguri and the tireless efforts of first responders, aid workers, and local authorities who are on the ground delivering essential services.
“Our thoughts remain with the people of Borno during this challenging time,” the embassy further stated.
The disaster had culminated in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and the displacement of many families, attracting a humanitarian assistance floodgate.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said that more than 30 people died and over 400,000 were displaced due to the flood in Maiduguri.
On September 9, 2024, thousands of residents fled their homes as flood-ravaged swathes of the Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin areas of Maiduguri.
The flood occurred due to the collapse of the Alau Dam which had been at full capacity.
The Borno government also opened up internally displaced persons (IDP) camps for victims across the state.