The Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has successfully rescued 3,682 people who were trapped in their homes due to severe flooding in Maiduguri. This was announced by the Director-General of SEMA, Barkindo Mohammed, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday.
Mohammed reported that as of 5 PM on Thursday, the agency had evacuated thousands of residents from flooded areas as part of an ongoing rescue operation. The efforts involve various resources, including motorized boats, canoes, divers, military personnel, and fire service trucks.
“As the water continues to recede, our focus is now on responding to distress calls. We will continue search and rescue operations today and tomorrow,” Mohammed stated.
He also revealed that approximately two million people have been affected by the flooding. In response, SEMA has established 14 official camps, along with several informal camps, to accommodate displaced individuals.
The Federal Government has provided significant support to the flood-affected areas, including a N3 billion fund and food supplies. According to Mohammed, President Bola Tinubu has extended this financial aid to Borno and other states. Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has also contributed additional funds to enhance SEMA’s response efforts.
“We are not only assisting flood victims in Maiduguri but also in various Local Government Areas across the state,” Mohammed added.