Borno Dam Collapse Displaces Thousands as Federal Government Opens Relief Camps

Federal Government Opens IDP Camps as Alau Dam Overflow Causes Massive Flooding in Maiduguri

The Borno dam collapse and flooding have left over 70% of Maiduguri submerged, displacing thousands of residents in the process. The catastrophic overflow of the Alau Dam followed a period of intense rainfall, triggering widespread devastation across the state. With streets, homes, and even key institutions such as the Shehu of Borno’s palace submerged, the flood has become one of the worst natural disasters in Borno’s recent history.

As a result of the Borno dam collapse and flooding, the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has called for the immediate evacuation of affected communities. Three Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps have been established to provide refuge for those forced to flee their homes.

The impact of the Borno dam collapse and flooding has been compounded by the region’s flat topography, which allowed the floodwaters to quickly spread throughout Maiduguri. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the situation has exceeded initial forecasts, with 70% of the town now underwater. Residents awoke to find their homes inundated, with some relocating to higher ground only to find these areas also submerged.

In response to the crisis, Vice President Kashim Shettima visited Maiduguri to assess the damage caused by the Borno dam collapse and flooding. He directed various government agencies to expedite rescue efforts and provide urgent relief materials to the affected communities. Additionally, several government institutions, including the University of Maiduguri, have suspended operations as the flood continues to ravage the city.

The ongoing crisis has also affected the local economy, with businesses, markets, and schools closing indefinitely. Many residents, like businessman Illiyasu Muhammad, expressed frustration, blaming the government for not issuing timely warnings about the impending release of water from the dam.