Red Cross seeks $2.5m for Maiduguri flood victims

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) says it requires at least $2.5 million to provide humanitarian support for victims of the recent flood in Maiduguri, Borno state.

On September 10, many residents of Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin areas of Maiduguri were displaced, following the collapse of the Alau dam which had been at full capacity in the weeks prior.

The flood forced many wild animals, including reptiles and ostriches, out of their habitats and into the streets. 

In a statement on Tuesday, NRCS said the organisation has deployed its disaster response teams to the affected areas to aid in building temporary shelters and providing psychosocial support for victims.

“The situation on the ground is critical, with many families struggling to survive. In the wake of this disaster, the Nigerian Red Cross is on the front lines, delivering emergency relief such as food, water, first aid and providing temporary shelter to those who have lost their homes,” the statement reads.

“Our teams are working tirelessly to respond to this emergency, but we cannot do it alone.”

The agency called for urgent donations from good-spirited individuals, as it aims to target 4,500 households with food and non-food items.  

Oluyemisi Adeaga, NRCS president, said the scale of the disaster exceeds available resources.  

Adeaga added that donations can be made through the agency’s official website: https://www.redcrossnigeria.org/maiduguri-flood-response or by contacting the fundraising team directly at [email protected].

“We urgently need the support of individuals, organizations, and the international community to help us reach those in desperate need. Every donation will make a difference and could save a life,” Adeaga said.

“Beyond immediate relief, the Nigerian Red Cross is committed to helping communities rebuild their lives.

“Every Naira counts in this moment of crisis. By coming together, we can provide the relief and hope that these communities desperately need.”