The United States has significantly increased its humanitarian support to assist thousands of flood victims in Maiduguri and other areas of Borno State. The severe flooding, which began on September 10, 2024, has caused multiple casualties, destroyed numerous properties, and left many families displaced. The U.S. Embassy in Abuja disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists on Monday. The disaster was triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam along the state’s Ngadda River.
“The United States is profoundly saddened by the catastrophic flooding that has affected Maiduguri and surrounding areas in Borno State, leading to fatalities, property damage, and the displacement of many families. We extend our deepest sympathies to the victims, their loved ones, and everyone impacted by this tragedy,” the statement said.
In response, the U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has initiated a large-scale relief operation in partnership with United Nations agencies and other collaborators.
In recent days, USAID, working in tandem with the World Food Program (WFP), has provided emergency hot meals to over 67,000 individuals in four camps hosting internally displaced persons (IDPs). The WFP is also supplying essential nutritional support to pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under the age of five.
Furthermore, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is deploying $3 million in USAID funding to bolster flood recovery efforts throughout the country. To reach the most isolated areas in Borno and the city of Maiduguri, USAID is supporting the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service with food airlifts to ensure that aid reaches communities severely impacted by the flooding.
USAID has also partnered with both international and local NGOs to reallocate existing resources to provide immediate assistance to those affected in Maiduguri and Jere Local Government Area.
“Through the World Food Program, USAID has distributed hot meal rations in four IDP camps, assisting more than 67,000 people in recent days. The WFP is also delivering emergency nutritional aid to pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under five years old.
The International Organisation for Migration is using an initial $3 million from USAID to address flood recovery needs nationwide. To further tackle urgent challenges, USAID is aiding the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service in carrying out food airlifts to areas of Borno and Maiduguri that are difficult to access,” the statement read.
As the floods continue to disrupt daily life, the U.S. has acknowledged the resilience of the affected communities and the unwavering efforts of first responders and aid workers.
“We applaud the courage and resilience of the Maiduguri community, as well as the relentless dedication of first responders, humanitarian workers, and local officials providing vital support on the ground. Our thoughts are with the people of Borno as they navigate this difficult period,” the statement concluded.
