• Shehu’s Palace, University Teaching Hospital, Zoo Among Key Infrastructure Affected
• Prison Breach Results in Inmate Deaths, Escapes
• FG Responds with Aid, Promises Support
• Residents Displaced, Animals Killed as Floodwaters Ravage City
A severe flood has ravaged Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, and parts of the Jere Local Government Area, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The flooding, which occurred on September 10, 2024, has submerged major roads, homes, shops, and key public infrastructure, including the Shehu’s Palace, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo.
The floodwaters have also breached a prison wall in the Custom area, resulting in the death of some inmates and the escape of others.
Major roads, such as the Post-Office Roundabout, are currently impassable, disrupting vehicular movement across the capital.
The affected areas include Abbaganaram, Custom Road, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, the Cattle Market in Old Maiduguri, Gwange, and Lagos Street.
The Sanda Kyarimi Zoo, a popular tourist destination, has also been severely affected, with 80% of its animals killed and the remainder fleeing into the city.
Thousands of residents, particularly women and children, living in flood-prone areas have been displaced, with many relocating to safer locations and taking refuge under trees along major roads.
The flood is attributed to both heavy rainfall and leakage from the Alo Dam, a critical water source drawing from the River Ngadda in Cameroon and Lake Chad.
Federal Government Response
In response to the crisis, President Bola Tinubu has instructed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide assistance to flood victims in Maiduguri.
The President expressed deep concern over the flooding and extended condolences to the affected families, calling for the immediate evacuation of those in danger.
The President assured Governor Babagana Zulum of federal support to address the immediate humanitarian needs and pledged to mobilize federal resources to help the state during this crisis.”
