Nigerian Floods Worsen, Death Toll Rises Nationwide
Severe floods in northeastern Nigeria have affected over 400,000 people, compounding the region’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state, has seen about 15% of its area submerged. The flooding has devastated crops, livestock, and displaced thousands already impacted by armed violence.
“With our small children, we don’t know where to stay now,” a displaced resident said. “Government should allow us to stay longer in the camp because if we go back to our house, we will not have a place to sleep.”
Earlier this month, the collapse of a major dam in Borno killed 30 people. Nationwide, floods have claimed 269 lives as of September 15, according to the National Emergency Management Agency. The disaster has wiped out homes and livelihoods, creating further hardships for those already vulnerable.
“It’s an absolute tragedy for these people who had their homes wiped out,” said David Stephenson, World Food Programme representative. He added that the flooding has presented yet another challenge for internally displaced people in the region.
Authorities have warned of potential flooding in 11 states following the release of water from a dam in neighboring Cameroon. West Africa has experienced some of its heaviest flooding in decades, affecting over 2 million people and threatening food security across the region. Urgent humanitarian assistance is needed to support those affected by this growing crisis.
