Victims Overflow as Rains Persist! Governor buni Steps In with Emergency Aid, Hygiene Essentials & Food Distribution Underway, Validation & Need Assessment Launched by NEMA & sEMA

The devastating floods continue to ravage five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Yobe State, with more victims registering as stagnant water and heavy downpour persist. The Yobe State Government has commenced delivery of Governor Buni’s first line support, including life-saving Non-Food Items (NFIs) and food to affected communities.

According to the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), over 8,000 households across 256 villages and communities have been affected, with the majority of victims losing part or all of their mud houses to the flood. Twenty-three public facilities have also been impacted.

Tragically, the floods have resulted in the loss of 26 lives due to building collapse and drowning, with over 200 injured, treated, and discharged. Many victims have been displaced, with some temporarily camped at government and private facilities across the affected LGAs.

In response, His Excellency Governor Mai Mala Buni has directed SEMA to intensify efforts and prioritize support for victims, focusing on protection, hygiene, and life-saving interventions. Despite the overwhelming situation, SEMA has put in place the following first line support measures:

– Enumeration of victims is ongoing without discrimination
– Immediate medication is provided free to victims requiring medical attention
– Temporary shelters are being improvised with LGA leadership
– First line hygiene/wash kits are being distributed to prevent flood-related communicable disease transmission
– First line food baskets are being provided while validation and need assessment continue

SEMA’s response efforts are ongoing across multiple LGAs, including Nguru, Karasuwa, Machina, Yusufari, Jakusko, Nangere, Yunusari, Potiskum, Gujba, Gulani, Damaturu, and Bursari.

The agency expresses gratitude to philanthropists who have contributed to the plight of the displaced and thanks the Commanding Officer of Nguru Army Barracks for providing an enabling environment for response. All victims registered on 14th in Nguru Camps have received first line support.

SEMA is working closely with sister agency NEMA and other UN and INGOs to continue need assessment and response. The public is informed to report incidents and remain alert, with red flag areas still advised to relocate. Resources and materials for embankment are underway to protect key locations.

Items distributed across Nguru Camps include:

– Maize
– Cooking oil
– Macaroni
– Pasta
– Mosquito nets
– Blankets
– Poly mats
– Slippers
– Torch lights
– Soap
– Sanitary pads
– Kettles
– Drugs and consumables

SEMA and the State Government appreciate the efforts of all volunteers in advocacy and saving lives.