Rescue efforts have intensified in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), military, and other organizations work tirelessly to save residents still trapped or missing two days after the devastating flood.
Sirajo Garba, the North East Acting Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, revealed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that dozens of people were rescued as the search continues in the hardest-hit areas, including Abbaganaram, Muna, and the 505 estate.
“We have deployed high suspension vehicles and boats, and the military is actively involved in search and rescue operations in the affected wards,” Garba stated.
He added that NEMA had successfully rescued about 200 individuals over the past two days.
His words: “On the day of the incident, over 1,000 people were saved, and more than 70,000 displaced individuals have been profiled in seven camps.”
While the exact number of casualties is still unknown, Garba noted that NEMA had provided four body bags, hinting that more bodies may be found as floodwaters recede.
In response to the catastrophe, several prominent figures visited Maiduguri to express their condolences and support.
These included members of the Nigeria Governors Forum, led by its Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje. Ministers of Water Resources, Interior, Agriculture, and members of the National Assembly also joined in the visits.
During the visit, Borno-born Rep. Muktar Betara (APC) donated N100 million, while Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State contributed N50 million to aid relief efforts.
As the rescue mission continues, authorities and agencies on the ground are assessing the full impact of the flood, which is being described as one of the most catastrophic in decades.
