- The Borno State government plans to close all 32 relief camps for flood victims within two weeks, affecting approximately 600,000 displaced individuals
- A committee has been formed to distribute cash and food supplies to flood victims, providing N10,000 and essential food items
The Borno State government has announced that it will close all 32 relief camps for flood victims in Maiduguri within the next two weeks, beginning Monday. Commissioner for Information, Prof. Usman Tar, shared this information during a Wednesday briefing at the Flood Situation Room in Maiduguri. The flood has displaced about 30,000 households, roughly 600,000 people in the city.
Prof. Tar explained that the camps would not remain open for longer than two weeks, as the government expects the floodwaters to recede, allowing the displaced persons to return to their homes. He noted that prolonging the operation of these camps would hinder the progress made in closing shelters that were initially established for victims of the Boko Haram insurgency.
To assist those affected, the government has formed a committee to distribute cash and food supplies to the displaced individuals. Each person will receive N10,000, a 25kg bag of rice, and a pack of spaghetti. Over 40% of the camps have already been reached, and the distribution will be completed in the coming days.
As the water recedes, most homes will become habitable again. The government will provide temporary shelter in tents for those whose homes were destroyed until rebuilding efforts can commence. A rapid assessment team also evaluates damaged properties to consider possible financial support for repairs.
The Ministry of Agriculture is also working to round up stray animals, including zoo animals, that have been rehabilitated. Security personnel have been deployed in areas where water is still present to prevent criminal activities. Fumigation and disinfection measures are also in place to ensure the safety of public spaces across the city.
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