The International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, has reported the evacuation of 117 individuals from four medical facilities in Borno State after the severe flooding on September 10.
The flooding, which has impacted over 414,000 people and destroyed numerous homes and crops, follows heavy rainfall that has worsened road access across the region.
In a statement from ICRC Public Relations Officer Aliyu Dawobe, it was highlighted that the organization has also provided 150 body bags to the Nigerian Red Cross Society, NRCS, the State Specialist Hospital, and the State Emergency Management Agency.
Dawobe noted that NRCS volunteers and staff are actively engaged in search and rescue operations, medical evacuations, and first aid, as well as reuniting families separated by floodwaters. To date, teams have recovered 22 bodies and reunited 76 children with their families.
In response to the crisis, the ICRC is supporting cholera preparedness efforts by positioning contingency supplies such as AquaTabs and chlorine powder, while training NRCS volunteers in their use. Hygiene promotion activities have been launched in three camps for flood-affected communities, focusing on cleaning water sources.
Additionally, the ICRC has organized psychosocial support for staff and volunteers involved in flood response activities. In the upcoming days, essential household items—including mats, blankets, tarpaulins, kitchen kits, mosquito nets, buckets, jerry cans, soap, hygiene kits, and loincloths—will be distributed to affected households. The ICRC is also extending its assistance to neighboring countries like Niger, Cameroon, and Chad to address their flood challenges.
READ ALSO : Maiduguri residents return home as floodwaters recede
Credible News recalls residents along the banks of River Yedseram in Maiduguri were living in fear for sometime as the river had overflowed its banks, causing flooding in several areas.
The situation had been compounded by reports that the Alau Dam, which was at full capacity, was to be opened to release excess water into the river, potentially worsening the flooding.
Several buildings and farmlands in Gwange Ward of Maiduguri were submerged, with more areas at risk. A stream known as Ngaddabul, which also flows through the city, had flooded properties in the Maduganari Ward, further adding to the distress of local residents.
Credible News.ng
