The Federal Ministry of Environment has dispatched a group of specialists to assist in alleviating the impact of the flooding in Borno state.
Last week’s destructive flooding in Borno state affected a minimum of two million individuals and claimed the lives of over 30 people in the area.
The flooding, attributed to the overflow of the Alau Dam situated approximately 10 kilometers from Maiduguri city center, was primarily caused by a significant influx of water from the Ngadda River, a key tributary of the River Yedzaram, as confirmed by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, mentioned in a press release on Wednesday that he led a team of essential ministry officials to extend condolences and offer support to the state last Friday in order to address the potential adverse consequences resulting from the unfortunate flood incident.
Lawal emphasized the critical necessity of implementing a united and comprehensive approach to tackle the ensuing environmental issues brought about by the flood.
“During the condolence visit, I informed the Governor that the Federal Ministry of Environment will send a team of experts from the relevant department, agencies and projects to collaborate with Borno State Government in addressing the impacts of the flood,” he said.
He pointed out that the ministry has deployed a team of experts from various departments, including Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management, Forestry, as well as teams from the Agro-Climatic Resilience Programme, Nigeria Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project, National Park Services, and the Environmental Health Council, to assist in addressing the flooding effects.
The above team will carry out continuous water sampling and tests, identify sources of hazardous chemicals and take proactive measures to prevent waterborne diseases. Similarly, the team will maintain continuous sampling of water sources which is essential for monitoring water quality, identifying contamination, as well as taking proactive measures to maintain public health and safety in the state. All agencies under the Ministry in Borno State have been directed to collaborate with the State Government to mitigate the effects of the flood disaster.
“So far, 100 drums of 40kg of chlorine has been deployed to Borno State to disinfect water sources, ensuring safe drinking water and preventing waterborne diseases like cholera. Furthermore, the Ministry will deploy 30,000 flyers with a view to sensitise the public on best sanitation and hygiene practices which includes proper waste disposal, frequent handwashing and personal hygiene with a view to reducing the spread of infections.
“Beyond immediate short term response, the Ministry will also work closely with Borno State Government to develop comprehensive flood mitigation strategies and early warning mechanisms to safeguard against future recurrences. We will also explore avenues for collaboration with international partners to strengthen the State’s capacity for disaster risk management and climate adaptation,” he said.
The minister commended Governor Babagana Zulum for his swift response in mobilising resources and ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected communities.
“I am confident that under His Excellency’s capable leadership, Borno State will emerge stronger from this tragedy and the resilience of its people will once again shine through.
“It is my hope that together, the Federal Government will strengthen its resolve to build resilience against such environmental challenges in the future,” he highlighted.
