WHO pledges to support victims of Maiduguri flood

By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu

Following severe floods that displaced thousands and caused significant damage in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, pledged the organization’s unwavering support to those affected.
During his visit to Maiduguri, Dr. Mulombo met with Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Garbai El-Kenemi, other goverment officials from the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation & Resettlement, as well as representatives from the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
Dr. Walter reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Borno in addressing the health challenges brought on by the recent floods.
He assessed the situation in flood-displaced communities, including the Bakasi and Yerwa IDP camps, where many displaced people have sought refuge.
Dr. Mulombo expressed deep concern over the impact of the disaster on the lives of the affected population, especially the most vulnerable, including women, children, and the elderly.
He assured the people of Borno State that WHO would continue to provide critical technical and operational support to mitigate the health impacts of the floods.
“On behalf of WHO, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the people of Borno State affected by this devastating flood. WHO stands with you during this difficult time, and we are committed to ensuring that essential health services reach those in need, particularly those displaced by the crisis.”
“We are shocked by the scale of the disaster, but we are here to assess the needs and support both the state and federal governments in addressing the challenges posed by this sudden emergency.”
Dr. Mulombo reiterated WHO’s dedication to collaborating with the Borno State government and other partners to prioritize the health and well-being of affected populations.
Expressing gratitude to WHO, the Borno Commissioner of Health, Professor Gana stated, “We appreciate WHO’s swift response and continued efforts to address the health needs of our people. As we focus on immediate relief, we must also prioritize building stronger health systems that can withstand future challenges posed by disasters like this.”
While guiding the WHO team through the state capital, Professor Gana highlighted that the flooding is the most severe the region has experienced in the past 30 years. He reported that 14 health facilities had been affected and thousands of people displaced.
The Commissioner emphasized that the immediate needs of the people include shelter, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), food, and health services. He urged partners to assist the government in addressing these urgent needs, while the government continues its efforts to ensure that people can return to their homes as soon as possible.