North-East Nigeria is currently facing a major humanitarian crisis following devastating floods in the region. The disaster was the result of torrential rains that caused the collapse of the Alau Dam, leading to dramatic flooding that had disastrous consequences for the population of Maiduguri.
The numbers speak for themselves: over 150,000 people directly affected in Maiduguri alone, over 30,000 homes damaged or destroyed, vital infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and markets completely submerged. The scale of the damage to agricultural land is jeopardizing the food security of the region, which is already facing a severe hunger and malnutrition crisis.
Beyond the numbers, it is the increased vulnerability to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change and lack of preparedness, that is highlighted. It is clear that reactivity remains the norm in disaster management in Nigeria, leaving communities often helpless in the face of annual floods.
The mobilization of humanitarian organizations, commendable as it is, has focused primarily on the urgency of the situation, providing immediate relief to the affected. However, it is crucial to emphasize that these efforts, while necessary, represent only a fragmented response to a larger and systemic problem.
The time has come for governments, at the federal and local levels, as well as all stakeholders, to shift from reaction to prevention. It is imperative to put in place proactive policies that anticipate and mitigate potential disasters, instead of merely reacting after the fact.
Indeed, it has become essential to develop a robust early warning system to prevent landslides, floods and other natural disasters. This system should be supported by robust infrastructure, regular monitoring of dams and disaster response plans that are constantly updated based on past experiences.
The current situation in Nigeria highlights the deep and systemic gaps affecting our capacity to respond to natural disasters. There is an urgent need to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach, focused on sustainable development, poverty reduction, environmental preservation and infrastructure strengthening. Prevention must become the cornerstone of our collective action to protect vulnerable populations and build a future resilient to the challenges of climate change..
In conclusion, the flood crisis in North-East Nigeria is a call to action for policymakers, humanitarian organizations and society at large to join forces for concerted planning and action to prevent natural disasters and protect the most vulnerable communities. Eschewing rapid response in favor of long-term prevention must become the norm, not the exception, if we are to build a sustainable future for all.