Flood Disaster in Borno State: Senator Urges Federal Government to Establish Feeding Centers

A devastating flood disaster has struck Borno State in Nigeria, leaving many victims in dire need of assistance. Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has called on the Federal Government to establish feeding centers for the flood victims, citing the dire situation as a national issue.

Speaking in Maiduguri, the state capital, Senator Ndume commended Governor Babagana Zulum for setting up over 25 camps for the victims, but stressed that the state government cannot cope with the challenge alone. He argued that establishing feeding centers would be a proactive step to avert further humanitarian crises in the state.

Ndume explained that emergency feeding is a standard practice worldwide in times of emergencies such as flooding, and suggested that the government could establish feeding centers by contracting volunteers. He also urged the Federal Government to open makeshift medical centers to cater to the health needs of victims in the interim.

The senator further emphasized that the Alau Dam collapse is not just a Borno issue, but a national disaster, citing the overwhelming destruction caused by the floods. He stressed that it will be a herculean task for the situation to return to normal in the coming days and weeks, given the extent of the damage.

Ndume appealed to wealthy Nigerians, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and good-spirited citizens to support the Borno State government in addressing the destruction caused by the floods. He noted that leaders and other stakeholders from Southern Borno have initiated moves to raise funds for the victims.

In his words, "Government could establish feeding centers by contracting volunteers. I think it will be a herculean task in a couple of days and even weeks for this situation to return to normal. Most houses would not survive because they had been submerged, and the foundations had weakened."

Ndume also urged corporate Nigerians to rise up and support the government in addressing the humanitarian crisis, emphasizing that it is crucial to help ensure that people do not continue to suffer. Some flood victims have been in their homes for the last six days, he added.

The senator’s appeal for support comes as the international community continues to monitor the situation in Borno State, where thousands of people have been displaced by the floods.