Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – Over 2,100,000 people have been affected by flooding in several areas of northwestern Nigeria.
In the State of Jigawa alone, flooding caused by the bursting of dams affected 2 million people (about half the population). 50,000 have been left homeless. The two dams responsible for the flooding are located in the neighboring State of Kano. The affected areas are in the semi-arid Sahel belt. Generally, the water accumulated in the dams during the year are released gradually to irrigate the fields. This year heavy rains have led to the rapid filling of the tanks of the dams. The plant operators decided to open the valve of the dam, a decision that was criticized by the State of Jigawa. The agency responsible for the management of dams has denied that the disaster was caused by the opening of the dams and instead, claims that it was caused by the incessant rains that hit the region.
In the State of Sokoto, local authorities say that more than 130,000 people have been displaced by the floods that hit the region three weeks ago. The disaster was caused by the sudden collapse of the dam of Goronyo, due to heavy rains.
Dozens of makeshift camps were set up in the area to house the homeless, while schools have been transformed into shelters. The health situation is serious, as the people are deprived of food, drinking water, and sanitation. The spread of epidemics of cholera and malaria is feared.
The devastation of crops in northern Nigeria is also likely to cause a rise in food prices. Thanks to its system of hydration, the region supplies most of the food produced in the country, part of which is exported to neighboring countries, which in turn have been affected by recent food shortages. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 30/09/2010)
