Over one million people have been displaced by the devasting flooding in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
This was confirmed on Wednesday by the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum.
During a visit to the Bakassi IDP camp along Biu-Damboa road in Maiduguri, where many displaced individuals have sought refuge, Governor Zulum announced cash donations and the provision of food and basic necessities. Vendors have been contracted to supply meals to those in the camp.
Zulum also acknowledged the receipt of a ₦3 billion flood relief fund from the Federal Government, which will be used to address the challenges caused by the disaster.
As a long-term measure, the governor announced plans to establish a health committee to monitor and prevent potential disease outbreaks. Search and rescue operations are underway in the affected communities to assess casualties, and data collection of displaced persons is ongoing.
Regarding the cause of the flood, Governor Zulum attributed it to the unusually heavy rainfall experienced this year.
The governor said development has overtaken water channels across the state capital, thereby blocking water pathways.
He also blamed the flood on the overflow of Alau Dam which was caused by the release of water from other dams in Cameroon.
Prof Zulum said the Alau Dam will be reconstructed to contain more water volume, while structures erected on riverine and water proned areas will be demolished to avoid future recurrence.