Vice President Kashim Shettima acknowledged on Tuesday that the recent devastating flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, has exceeded the Bola Tinubu administration’s projections, describing it as the worst flood to hit the city in over 30 years.
During an on-site assessment of the affected areas, including parts of the Borno State Government House and the Emir’s Palace, Shettima expressed his concern over the disaster’s scale. “The severity of this flood has far exceeded our estimates,” he remarked. “This is the most catastrophic flood Maiduguri has experienced in over three decades.”
Shettima explained that the flooding was caused by the collapse of the spillways of the Alau Dam, resulting in the release of excess water. Despite the government’s preparations based on the 2024 Flood Outlook, which included extensive contingency plans and proactive measures, the Vice President admitted that the disaster’s scale posed unprecedented challenges.
He assured residents that the federal government, in collaboration with the Borno State government, remains committed to mobilizing all necessary resources to ensure the safety and support of those affected. Efforts are currently underway to evacuate and resettle displaced residents, while providing food, shelter, and medical assistance.
“This disaster is a stark reminder of the escalating threats posed by climate change, not just globally but especially in regions like ours,” Shettima emphasized. “Nigeria’s vulnerability to floods has been evident in past disasters, such as those in 2012, 2018, and 2022. To combat these challenges, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has developed a comprehensive plan.”
Shettima also highlighted the government’s intensified interventions in flood-prone areas, focusing on safeguarding communities, protecting agricultural zones, and reinforcing critical infrastructure.
Commending the swift response of the Borno State government, Shettima praised the resilience of Maiduguri’s residents, noting their extraordinary compassion in helping each other during this crisis.
Conveying a message from President Tinubu, he reiterated the administration’s commitment to addressing such challenges head-on. Earlier, President Tinubu expressed his sympathy for the flood victims and called for the immediate evacuation of those affected.
“While relevant authorities assess the damage, the President calls for urgent evacuation efforts,” stated Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. “President Tinubu assures Governor Babagana Umara Zulum that the Federal Government is prepared to collaborate in addressing the immediate humanitarian needs of the affected people and has directed the National Emergency Management Agency to provide assistance.”
