Severe rainfall in northern Nigeria has caused devastating floods, resulting in numerous casualties and extensive damage to homes and farmlands, affecting more than half a million individuals. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is gearing up for an emergency response to deliver immediate assistance to the most impacted households in Adamawa and Borno states in the northeast.
Across the nation, over 515,794 people have been affected by the floods, with 205,338 displaced, 170 fatalities, and significant destruction of 76,667 houses and over 106,089 hectares of farmland. The ongoing heavy rains continue to wreak havoc, with the 2022 floods displacing over 1.4 million people, underscoring the destructive impact of climate-induced rainfall.
In Borno State, the IRC is set to provide prompt relief through cash assistance to 600 severely affected households, enabling them to address immediate needs such as shelter, food, and other essentials as they recover from the calamity.
As the rainy season reaches its peak, the IRC will closely monitor the situation and adjust its response to meet the changing needs of flood-affected populations in various regions of Nigeria where it operates, including Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara. In Adamawa State, the IRC has initiated its anticipatory action program by offering cash assistance to communities along the Benue River to alleviate the impact of water releases from the Lagdo Dam.
In addition to cash aid, the IRC is tackling the critical need for improved sanitation and access to clean water as the floods have led to a rise in waterborne diseases like diarrhea and malaria, with conditions conducive to the spread of other communicable diseases such as cholera.
Babatunde Ojei, IRC Nigeria Country Director, expressed concern over the repeated occurrence of flooding, emphasizing its severe impact on communities. He highlighted the need for collaborative efforts with local authorities, partners, and community leaders to address the challenges posed by ongoing floods.
The IRC has been operating in Nigeria since 2012, providing essential support to communities affected by climate-related disasters, armed conflict, and poverty. With field offices in northeast Nigeria and a country office in Abuja, the IRC delivers health, nutrition, water, sanitation, hygiene, and education services to help communities recover and rebuild.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Rescue Committee (IRC).