Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has conducted an assessment tour to inspect key infrastructure following the devastating flood of September 10, 2024. The governor visited vital bridges, including Gwange Bridge, Fori Bridge, and Moro-Moro Bridge, which connect Maiduguri’s metropolitan area. The tour also included critical government-owned facilities like the Gwange Maternity Hospital, to evaluate the extent of the damage and plan for rebuilding.
During the tour, Governor Zulum expressed concern over illegal constructions in waterways, which worsened the flooding.
“People build right inside the waterways,” he said. “We shall constitute a committee to review these constructions. The committee will recommend appropriate measures to the Federal Government, and we will ensure that those who built within the waterways should not be allowed to rebuild.”
In an interview with journalists, the governor noted that while the flood was partly caused by the overflow and breakage of the Alu Dam, it was exacerbated by buildings obstructing water channels. Despite several warnings, many residents continued to build in high-risk areas, leading to over 70% of Maiduguri being submerged.
“We will not forfeit the lives and properties of the entire people of Borno just for a few individuals,” Governor Zulum stressed. “I want to instruct the Borno State Ministry of Works and Housing, the Borno State Information Geographic System, the flood committee, the police, DSS, and other relevant security agencies not to allow anyone to rebuild within the waterways.
Dominica Nwabufo
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