Lara Adejoro, Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Environment has deployed a team of experts to help in mitigating the effects of the flooding that occurred in Borno state.
Last week’s devastating flooding in Borno state affected not less than two million people and killed over 30 people in the state.
The flood, according to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, was largely due to the overflow of water from the Alau Dam, located about 10 kilometres from Maiduguri city centre, resulting from a massive inflow from the Ngadda River, a major tributary of the River Yedzaram.
In a press statement on Wednesday, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal noted that he led key officials of the ministry to pay a condolence and sympathy visit to the state last Friday, towards mitigating the adverse effects that may occur as a result of the unfortunate flood incidence.
Lawal stated that it is important to focus on the urgent need for a coordinated and comprehensive response to mitigate the resultant environmental challenges posed by the flood.
“During the condolence visit, I informed the Governor that the Federal Ministry of Environment will send a team of experts from the relevant department, agencies and projects to collaborate with Borno State Government in addressing the impacts of the flood,” he said.
He highlighted that the ministry has consequently deployed a team of experts from the Department of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, the Department of Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management, the Department of Forestry; the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-arid Landscape Programme Project, the Nigeria Climate Adaptation-Erosion and Watershed Project, the National Park Services, and the Environmental Health Council to help in mitigating the effects of the flooding.
“The above team will carry out continuous water sampling and tests, identify sources of hazardous chemicals and take proactive measures to prevent waterborne diseases. Similarly, the team will maintain continuous sampling of water sources which is essential for monitoring water quality, identifying contamination, as well as taking proactive measures to maintain public health and safety in the state. All agencies under the Ministry in Borno State have been directed to collaborate with the State Government to mitigate the effects of the flood disaster.
“So far, 100 drums of 40kg of chlorine has been deployed to Borno State to disinfect water sources, ensuring safe drinking water and preventing waterborne diseases like cholera. Furthermore, the Ministry will deploy 30,000 flyers with a view to sensitise the public on best sanitation and hygiene practices which includes proper waste disposal, frequent handwashing and personal hygiene with a view to reducing the spread of infections.
“Beyond immediate short term response, the Ministry will also work closely with Borno State Government to develop comprehensive flood mitigation strategies and early warning mechanisms to safeguard against future recurrences. We will also explore avenues for collaboration with international partners to strengthen the State’s capacity for disaster risk management and climate adaptation,” he said.
The minister commended Governor Babagana Zulum for his swift response in mobilising resources and ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected communities.
“I am confident that under His Excellency’s capable leadership, Borno State will emerge stronger from this tragedy and the resilience of its people will once again shine through.
“It is my hope that together, the Federal Government will strengthen its resolve to build resilience against such environmental challenges in the future,” he added.
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