The recent flooding in the Alau community of Konduga local government area and other neighbouring communities in Borno State has left a trail of destruction, displacing residents, shutting down schools and businesses. It has even been reported that the animals in the nearby Sanda Kyarimi Zoological Park, were not left out, as they have been forcibly displaced as well.
The flooding incident has been attributed to the Alau Dam overflowing its banks and emptying into nearby communities, forcing residents of Bulabulin, Fori, Gwange, Galtimari, and other communities in Local Government Areas of Konduga, Jere and Maiduguri, the state capital, to evacuate for safety. This devastating incident highlights the urgent need for effective flood management measures across Nigeria to avoid a repeat of the devastating 2022 flood incident that affected millions of lives and livelihoods.
The Alau Dam overflow is not the first of such occurrence that has resulted in flooding incidence across Nigeria. This underscores the cogent need for government and relevant stakeholders to prioritize synergy and coordination in dam operations across the states. This step will aid effective early warning system that allows for timely evacuation.
This should also be a call-to-action for the federal and all state governments to prioritize investment in Dam operations, maintenance, and flood management.
There is a heightened need for non-governmental organizations, development partners and relevant government authorities to partner in building community resilience, creating awareness on flood risks and preparedness strategies, and enhancing accountability in funds allocation and utilization for flood management.
With more states predicted by Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to experience heavy rainfall and high likelihood of flash flooding, in the coming days, across Nigeria, this is a wake-up call for the government and residents to intensify its preparedness and take proactive measures in addressing flood issues to save lives and livelihoods.
Together we can build a more resilient future for all!
