By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
The Borno State Government has assured residents of continued support and swift action in the wake of the devastating floods that hit parts of Maiduguri, Jere, and Mafa Local Government Areas earlier this month.
Addressing the public, Honourable Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, on behalf of Governor Babagana Zulum, urged citizens to remain patient and resilient during the ongoing recovery process.
The floods, which struck on September 10, 2024, claimed lives, displaced thousands, and caused damage worth billions of naira to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. The state government immediately activated disaster management mechanisms, which have now transitioned into a recovery phase, with efforts already showing positive results.
Prof. Tar expressed gratitude to federal and state agencies, development partners, and the media for their role in evacuating trapped victims, providing relief, and ensuring constant communication with the public. He also commended the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, and several other agencies for their dedication during the crisis.
Key achievements in the recovery process include the mass evacuation of victims, restoration of essential services such as roads and power, and the establishment of 36 internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. These camps, spread across Maiduguri and Jere, are equipped with food, water, medical services, and security, providing temporary relief for affected families.
In addition, the Borno State Government has established a Flood Disaster Situation Room and a Relief Fund Disbursement Committee to ensure transparency in the distribution of over seven billion naira in donations. Prof. Tar emphasized that the government is working diligently to complete rapid assessments of affected homes, with no victim left behind in the recovery efforts.
While progress has been made, challenges remain, including stagnant water in some areas and slow assessments due to the difficult terrain. The government is addressing these issues, and Prof. Tar reassured residents that all affected households will receive the necessary support.
Prof. Tar urged those sheltering in off-camp locations to either return home or relocate to the official IDP camps, where support services are more efficiently managed. He also noted that future aid will be directed to those who have returned to their homes as water levels continue to recede.
The government called for continued patience, unity, and cooperation from all stakeholders and citizens, ensuring that the recovery process is fair, transparent, and beneficial to all affected by the disaster.
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