The Federal Government has pledged to continue thorough assessments and interventions in flood-impacted areas of Maiduguri, following massive flooding that submerged over half of the city. Through the Ministry of Environment, efforts to prevent an epidemic include ongoing disinfection and chlorination of water sources, alongside fumigation to control vectors that spread diseases.
Mrs. Adeola Omotunde, Director II of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, who leads the Ministry’s disinfection exercise, emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health. The team has conducted extensive testing of water and soil samples for chemical and faecal contamination while chlorinating household water sources. They have also carried out fumigation in heavily affected areas, including Bulabulin and Kalari communities, as well as the Shehu’s Palace, Maiduguri Central Mosque, and government offices.
“The disinfection efforts aim to prevent waterborne diseases, especially cholera,” Omotunde said, adding that public education campaigns are underway to inform residents about flood-related health risks.
Maiduguri was devastated on September 9, 2024, after the collapse of the Alau Dam in Konduga Local Government Area, worsened by heavy rains. Over 239,000 people were affected in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere LGAs, with widespread damage to infrastructure, crops, and homes.
In response, the Ministry has also been working on long-term solutions, including erosion control and drainage system improvements. Additionally, park rangers have safely recaptured and returned animals displaced from the Maiduguri Zoo by the flood.
The Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Lawal, dispatched a response team led by Omotunde to Borno State to assess the flood’s impact and coordinate ongoing mitigation efforts, particularly focusing on public health concerns.
