Editor
By Fatima Saka
The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, has initiated the deployment of extra search and rescue personnel and facilities to bolster the ongoing rescue efforts for Maiduguri residents who are stranded in their homes due to the catastrophic flood disaster in the city.
During the search and rescue operation, the Agency cautioned the state government of potential outbreak of waterborne diseases resulting from the contamination of household water due to the flood.
Consequently, the Agency has been supplying clean and safe water using its water tanker to the temporary shelters designated for the displaced residents affected by the flood, including Bakassi camp.
This information was conveyed in a press release issued by Manzo Ezekiel from the Press Unit of NEMA on Wednesday.
The statement stated that since the onset of the flooding caused by heavy rains in the city last weekend and the subsequent overflow from the Alau dam, the Agency, through its North East zonal office, has been collaborating with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant stakeholders in executing search and rescue operations and conducting rapid assessments to determine the appropriate aid for the affected individuals.
It is worth mentioning that Vice President Kashim Shettima recently led a prominent Federal Government delegation, including the Director General of NEMA, to the flood-stricken Maiduguri metropolis for an on-site evaluation and to express condolences to the people and government of Borno State.
During his address to the displaced persons currently seeking refuge at the Bakkasi camp established by the State Government, the Vice President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to assisting the affected individuals and communities, ensuring that recovery efforts extend to all areas impacted by the flood disaster.
The delegation also paid a visit to the palace of the Shehu of Borno, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba Al Amin El-Kanemi.
He commended NEMA, alongside other agencies and volunteers, for their dedicated efforts in providing safety and support to those affected by the flood.
