Major roads, houses, and shops in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, along with parts of Jere Local Government Area, have been severely impacted by flooding.
Public infrastructure, including the Shehu’s Palace, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo, have been submerged by the floodwaters.
The prison wall near the Customs area was breached by the flood, reportedly causing some inmates to drown while others fled for their lives.
Key roads within the state capital, such as the Post-Office Roundabout, which connects major parts of the city, have been flooded, halting vehicular movement in the metropolis.
Communities such as Abbaganaram, Custom Road (where the flooded prison is located), Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, Cattle Market in Old Maiduguri, Gwange, and Lagos Street have all been affected by the flooding.
Sanda Kyarimi Zoo Park, a prominent feature of the city, was also flooded. According to the zoo’s General Manager, Ali Abatcha, 80% of the zoo’s animals have died due to the flood, while the rest have escaped into the city.
Thousands of residents, mostly women and children living in flood-prone areas, have been displaced. Many shop owners and small businesses have also been affected.
As they move through safer areas in Maiduguri, numerous displaced families can be seen relocating with their belongings, with many seeking shelter under trees along major roads.
In addition to the heavy rainfall this year, the flooding has been attributed to a breach in the banks of Alo Dam, a key water source for Maiduguri, which is fed by River Ngadda in Cameroon and Lake Chad.
FG Offers Relief
President Bola Tinubu has directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide assistance to flood victims in parts of Maiduguri.
In a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the flooding.
The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly to the families who lost loved ones and their livelihoods due to the disaster caused by the overflow of the Alo Dam.
Tinubu called for the immediate evacuation of residents from the affected areas and assured Governor Babagana Zulum that the Federal Government is ready to collaborate in addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of those impacted by the flood.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to mobilizing federal resources to support the state during this challenging time.