The Borno State government has initiated a fumigation exercise in the capital city of Maiduguri as floodwaters begin to recede, following a devastating flood that hit the area earlier in the month. The effort is part of the state’s recovery plan to prevent health issues that may arise due to the stagnant floodwater and damaged sewage systems.
This was disclosed by Abdurrahman Bundi, Senior Special Adviser on New Media to the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum. During a briefing at the Flood Disaster Situation Room in Maiduguri, Bundi emphasized that the fumigation process is being carried out with urgency as people who were displaced by the flood start returning to their homes.
“The measure is aimed at preventing any potential outbreak of diseases related to the floods, which have disrupted sewage systems and caused other public health hazards,” Bundi explained. The extensive flooding in Borno had overwhelmed infrastructure, and the state government is keen to address the potential health risks posed by the unsanitary conditions left behind.
As of now, approximately 15 significant areas across the city have already been fumigated. These locations include hospitals, correctional service quarters, fire service quarters, and several residential neighborhoods such as parts of Gwange and Shehuri wards. The government has placed particular focus on these areas due to their vulnerability and the number of people returning.
While efforts are being made to manage the aftermath within Maiduguri, the situation remains critical in the outskirts. Several roads and farmlands in areas surrounding the city remain flooded. Among the most affected is the Maiduguri-Mafa-Dikwa-Gamboru road, a key route for both local travel and international trade between Nigeria and neighboring Cameroon and Chad. The flooding of this road has caused significant disruptions to movement and economic activities.
The flooding, which began on September 10, was triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam spillway. This resulted in the destruction of homes, farmlands, and other properties. While the full scale of the damage is yet to be fully assessed, several deaths have already been reported.
