Weak Planning Could Aggravate Flooding Effects On Communities

Weak Planning Could Aggravate Flooding Effects On CommunitiesFlooding has consistently placed Nigeria in the global spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Without decisive action to enhance preparedness, the country’s situation could deteriorate further. These natural disasters exacerbate Nigeria’s already severe challenges, including rising fatalities, health crises, educational disruptions, and increasing poverty.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Despite the alarming statistics, there have been insufficient sustained efforts to address this issue. Early signs of flooding are often followed by warnings from relevant authorities, yet adequate preventive measures are rarely implemented.

According to UNICEF, in 2022, floods impacted 34 of Nigeria’s 36 states, displacing 1.3 million people and resulting in over 600 fatalities and the destruction of 200,000 homes. Additionally, more than 2.5 million Nigerians required humanitarian assistance as the floods led to outbreaks of waterborne diseases like cholera and increased cases of respiratory infections and diarrhea.

Fast forward two years, and the situation remains dire. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported in September 2024 that 31 states and 180 local government areas were severely affected. Over 1 million individuals have been impacted by relentless rains, with 641,598 displaced, 285 dead, and thousands injured. Homes, farmlands, and essential infrastructure have been devastated, with 98,242 homes affected. With rain still at its peak, the potential for further destruction looms.

On September 10, the Alau Dam in Borno State collapsed due to heavy rains, causing severe flooding in Maiduguri and surrounding areas. Reports from the Borno State Management Agency confirmed that this disaster resulted in 150 deaths and displaced 120,000 people.

Save the Children has indicated that more than 400,000 people have been displaced, with three million children unable to attend school. The flooding in Borno has submerged 70% of Maiduguri, impacting over one million residents, and has been described as “the worst flood in 30 years.”

Adding to this national crisis, Cameroon announced the release of water from its largest dams, heightening concerns for Nigeria as the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency warned 11 states of potential flooding. This recurring issue has prompted the Nigerian government to issue statements rather than pursue long-term solutions.

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