Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to tackling the nation’s flood crisis. This declaration comes in response to the devastating floods that have recently displaced numerous communities in the region.
During his visit on Tuesday, Shettima emphasized the multifaceted nature of the flood challenges facing Nigeria, stating that President Tinubu has developed a comprehensive roadmap designed to address these issues head-on.
“The flood that has engulfed Maiduguri and its environs deeply devastates me. My heart goes out to the families who have tragically lost their homes and livelihoods in this calamity,” he expressed, signaling the administration’s empathy towards the affected citizens.
The vice-president’s visit was prompted by the urgent need for an on-the-spot assessment of the flood’s impact, which he described as the most catastrophic the region has experienced in over three decades.
“The flood, which began over the weekend and worsened in the following days, was the direct result of excess water from the Alau Dam. The collapse of the spillways unleashed a significant surge of water downstream, causing widespread flooding in the surrounding communities,” Shettima explained.
He reassured the public that the federal government is prioritizing the welfare of the affected communities. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not only expressed his deepest sympathies but has also assured that the federal government will prioritize the welfare of the affected communities,” he affirmed.
The government is currently mobilizing resources to provide food, shelter, and medical assistance to those in need as evacuation and resettlement efforts continue.
Shettima also highlighted the proactive measures that had been prepared in advance of the flood, despite the disaster exceeding expectations. “In response to our 2024 Flood Outlook, we had implemented comprehensive contingency plans. Nonetheless, the severity of this flood has far exceeded our estimates,” he acknowledged.
Furthermore, the Vice President noted that the increasing threats posed by climate change necessitate urgent action.
“This disaster serves as a sobering reminder of the increasing threats posed by climate change, not just globally, but particularly to regions like ours,” he stated, reflecting on Nigeria’s historical vulnerability to flooding crises.
In collaboration with Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, Shettima is overseeing the implementation of flood mitigation measures informed by historical data and climate forecasts.
He emphasized the need for unity and compassion in overcoming this tragedy: “We will overcome this tragedy as long as our resolve remains strong, as long as we remain united, as long as we remain compassionate, and as long as we prioritize strategic actions.”
