The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal has assured Borno State governor, Prof. Umara Zulum and the people of Borno of the Federal Government’s unwavering support following the catastrophic flood that recently devastated Maiduguri and other areas of the state.
The minister gave this assurance during a courtesy visit to the governor’s office, where he conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the flood’s impact.
Lawal disclosed that a team from the Federal Ministry of Environment – which includes representatives from the pollution control and environmental health department, Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), NEWMAP and the National Park Service (NPS) – is working closely with the Borno State government and international partners. Their aim is to manage the aftermath of the flood through recovery and mitigation efforts, ensuring that the state becomes more resilient to climate change and environmental hazards.
The minister emphasised the seriousness of the situation and the need for a coordinated effort to address the challenges posed by the flood. He revealed that the ministry is conducting continuous water sampling and testing to prevent waterborne diseases caused by decomposed bodies and damaged sewage systems. Additionally, studies are being carried out to identify the immediate and underlying causes of the flooding to prevent future occurrences.
“The ministry is committed to mobilizing all necessary resources and technical support to assist Borno State in tackling the environmental challenges posed by the flood,” he added.
In response, Zulum expressed his appreciation for the minister’s visit and support during this challenging time. He stressed the importance of developing medium and long-term measures to build resilience against climate change and environmental threats.
The governor also called for collaborative efforts to conserve the ecosystem, protect flora and fauna and conduct hydrological rehabilitation. He raised concerns about elephants vandalising farmlands as they migrate due to their flooded habitats, emphasising the need for proper management to avoid breaching international wildlife conventions.
The joint team from the Federal Ministry of Environment, Borno State Government and donor organisations will focus on several critical areas, including:
– Assessing damage to hospitals, schools and markets submerged by the flood.
– Repairing damaged infrastructure, including bridges, and addressing water contamination caused by the collapse of sewerage systems and the presence of hazardous waste from factories and hospitals.
– Evacuating people from high-risk areas to safer locations.
– Providing priority needs such as shelter, clean water and food.
– Implementing interventions to prevent disease outbreaks in evacuation camps and affected areas.
A statement from the ministry’s head of press and public relations, Ibrahim Haruna noted that the minister was accompanied by key officials, including the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mahmoud Kambari; the director of PRS, the national project coordinator for ACReSAL, the Conservator-General of the National Park Service, the director of press, among others.
