By Hajara Usman
The Gombe Network of Civil Society (GONET) has called for urgent international assistance to provide relief to the victims of the recent flooding in Maiduguri and its surrounding areas, following the collapse of the Alau Dam.
This appeal was made in a press statement issued by Malam Ibrahim Yusuf, Chairman of GONET, who emphasised the need for immediate global support.
“We urge global humanitarian agencies, international organisations, and donor partners to urgently assist the families affected by this disaster. Essential supplies, including food, clean water, medicine, clothing, and temporary shelters, are critically needed to meet the immediate needs of those displaced,” the statement read.
While praising the ongoing efforts of local authorities, citizens, and volunteers who have been working tirelessly to provide emergency relief, Yusuf stressed that the scale of the disaster is beyond the capacity of local resources. “A stronger and more coordinated international response is necessary to ensure the affected communities receive the assistance they require,” he added.
Yusuf further called on key humanitarian organisations such as the United Nations, the International Red Cross, and other global relief agencies to prioritise aid for Maiduguri and the surrounding areas.
He highlighted that immediate intervention is essential to reduce the impact of the floods and support the Borno State government in managing the crisis.
“GONET stands in solidarity with the people of Maiduguri and Borno State during this extremely challenging time. We remain hopeful that swift international assistance will help to ease the suffering and restore hope to those affected,” he said.
Yusuf also noted that the catastrophic flooding has left many communities in Maiduguri isolated and cut off, with key locations such as the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the Shehu of Borno’s Palace, and numerous residential areas submerged, exacerbating the suffering and hardship faced by residents.