By Aaior K. Comfort
The United Nations has allocated $6 million from the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund to support flood victims in Borno State. The donation follows the collapse of Alau Dam on September 10, which forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announced that a joint mission, including UN agencies, NGOs, and the Nigeria Red Cross Society, visited Maiduguri, the state capital. The mission is providing hot meals, air-dropped food to isolated areas, water trucking, and sanitation services.
Emmanuel Bigenimana, head of the World Food Programme (WFP) office in Maiduguri, reported severe damage from the flooding, with significant displacement and overcrowding in IDP camps. The WFP has set up soup kitchens in three camps to provide nutritious meals to the most affected.
The dam failure inundated 50% of Maiduguri, prompting evacuation orders. The ongoing crisis exacerbates existing conflicts and food insecurity in the region. Additional funding is being sought to address immediate needs and support long-term recovery.