The United States has stepped up to provide critical humanitarian aid to thousands of victims affected by the devastating floods in Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State.
The severe flooding that occurred on September 10, 2024, has led to the loss of lives, widespread destruction of properties, and the displacement of countless families.
This was revealed in a statement made available to journalists on Monday from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja.
The incident was caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam on the state Ngadda River.
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 statement reads.
In response, the US government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, launched a major relief effort, working alongside United Nations agencies and other partners.
Over the past few days, USAID, in partnership with the World Food Program, has distributed emergency hot meals to more than 67,000 people in four camps hosting internally displaced persons.
The WFP is also delivering life-saving nutritional aid to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under the age of five.
The International Organisation for Migration is using $3 million from USAID to support flood recovery efforts nationwide. To assist hard-to-reach areas in Borno and Maiduguri, USAID is collaborating with the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service to conduct food airlifts, ensuring aid reaches the most affected communities.
USAID has also partnered with international and local NGOs to redirect resources for immediate relief in flood-affected Maiduguri and Jere Local Government Area. Through the World Food Program, USAID is providing hot meal rations in four camps for internally displaced persons, reaching over 67,000 individuals recently. Additionally, emergency nutrition assistance is being offered to pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under five.
To further address urgent needs, USAID is supporting the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service in conducting food airlifts to inaccessible areas in Borno and Maiduguri city,” it read.
As the floodwaters continue to disrupt lives, the U.S. has praised the resilience of the local population and the tireless work of first responders and aid workers.
“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 statement added.
