Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other stakeholders to assist in the resettlement of victims of the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri. The governor made this appeal during a meeting with NEMA’s Director-General in Maiduguri, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to ensure effective support for the displaced individuals.
Zulum revealed that 36 camps have been established to accommodate those displaced by the floods. However, he expressed the state’s intention not to maintain these camps indefinitely, referencing past experiences where camps were sustained for over a decade due to insurgency. “These camps will be closed down gradually as the Alau dam floodwater continues to recede,” he stated, adding that the government aims to avoid repeating previous mistakes.
To facilitate the transition back to their communities, Zulum mentioned that the state government plans to provide a two-week food ration for those in the camps. “We believe that after two weeks, conditions will improve for many to return to their homes,” he noted. He urged NEMA to collaborate closely with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the flood committee to ensure proper coordination in responding to the emergency. “There’s a need for coordination to get it right since we are all working towards the same objective of bringing succor to the people,” he emphasized. The governor also pointed out that the state government and NEMA would lead the relief efforts, with donors and development partners playing a complementary role.
NEMA’s Director-General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, acknowledged the urgency of the situation and outlined the agency’s ongoing interventions. Since the occurrence of the flood, NEMA has been collaborating with SEMA and the state Disaster Response Unit to provide essential support, including food, non-food items, water, ambulances, and tents. “We are still part of the search and rescue team,” Umar added, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to the relief efforts.
She also commended Governor Zulum and his team’s leadership in managing the crisis and assured him of sustained support from NEMA. Additionally, Umar announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had donated 50 tonnes of relief materials, which would be distributed to Borno and other states affected by the flood disaster.
Governor Zulum’s call for support highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Borno State in managing natural disasters and the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the needs of displaced individuals. With the coordinated response from NEMA, SEMA, and other stakeholders, the state aims to ensure a smooth transition for the flood victims as they begin to rebuild their lives.
