NIGERIA RED CROSS INTERVENTION IN AIDING VICTIMS OF ALUA- DAM DISASTER IN MAIDUGURI,BORNU STATE

The Nigerian Red Cross was established by Nigeria’s Act of Parliament in 1960 and recognized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in 1963, the Nigerian Red Cross Society has been a cornerstone of humanitarian response in Nigeria. 

With a vast network of over 800,000 volunteers across the 36 States and FCT and 774 Local Governments. The NRCS provides essential services including search and rescue, disaster relief, health education, and emergency response and post disaster community resilience and development.

The recent collapse of Alua Dam in maiduguri brought about devastating flood of which has led to severe flooding in Maiduguri. The disaster which submerged thousands of homes and displaced residents in multiple communities claimed lives and properties.

Many has condemned the failure of Nigeria's emergency response agencies noting that the floodwaters had been rising for about a week culminating in the eventual collapse of the dam on Tuesday.

This inundated Seventy percent (70%) of the Borno state capital. Affecting areas include Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, Bulabulin and other nearby communities, including the palace of the Shehu of Bornu, government facilities, and even led to a jail break and the escape of animals from the Sanda Kyarimi Park zoo, with eighty percent (80%) of the zoo's animals reported dead.

Red Cross Medical teams are on ground offering first aid and healthcare services to those injured or in need of medical attention. Special attention is being given to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

To prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases, the red Cross teams are distributing water purification tablets and educating affected communities on best practices for maintaining hygiene in emergency conditions.

The NRCS is presently, working with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to set up temporary shelters and provide essential relief supplies, including clean water, food, and nonfood items, to displaced families.

Recognizing the trauma experienced by flood victims, the NRCS is providing psychosocial support to help individuals and families cope with the emotional and psychological impacts of the disaster.

Standing in solidarity with the people affected by the floods in different areas of Borno state while sympathizing with those who lost loved ones, those displaced, and those who lost their properties due to the floods. 

Encourage and appreciating NRC volunteers and staff who were impacted yet are reporting to duty while attending to the needs of their families.

For further information or to contribute to the relief efforts, please contact the Nigerian Red Cross Society at info@redcrossnigeria.org

For interviews or enquiries, contact:

Chima Nwankwo

Coordinator, Communications and Advocacy Nigerian Red Cross Society

Phone: +234 802 359 7255

Email: chima.nwankwo@redcrossnigeria.org