U.S. Government Provides Humanitarian Aid to Maiduguri Flood Victims
The United States government has extended humanitarian assistance to victims affected by the recent devastating floods in Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State.
Expressing sorrow over the tragedy, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja stated on Monday, “The United States 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.”
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with UN agencies and other implementing partners, has begun providing aid to the affected victims. According to the U.S. Embassy, the World Food Programme (WFP) has distributed hot meal rations in four camps hosting internally displaced persons (IDPs), reaching more than 67,000 individuals in the past few days. Emergency nutrition assistance is also being offered to pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under five.
Additionally, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is utilizing an initial $3 million in USAID funding to address the flood’s impact across the country. USAID is also supporting the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) to conduct food airlifts to inaccessible areas in Maiduguri and Borno State to meet urgent needs.
Other USAID-funded partners, including both international and local NGOs, are repurposing existing funds to provide crucial assistance to individuals impacted by the flooding in Maiduguri and the neighboring 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.
According to newsmen the floods, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam at full capacity, have claimed more than 30 lives and displaced over 400,000 people in Maiduguri, as reported by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Thousands of residents fled their homes as floodwaters swept through Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin areas of Maiduguri. In response, the Borno State government has opened internally displaced persons (IDP) camps for victims across the state.
