The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has begun providing critical assistance to victims of the devastating floods in Maiduguri through United Nations agencies and its implementing partners.
In a statement released by the U.S. government on Monday, it was revealed that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is utilizing an initial $3 million in USAID funding to address the immediate flood-related needs across the country.
The statement further disclosed that USAID, through the World Food Programme (WFP), has been providing hot meal rations in four camps housing Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Over 67,000 individuals have benefitted from this initiative in recent days.
Additionally, the WFP is offering emergency nutrition assistance to pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under five years old, in the affected areas.
“To further address urgent needs, USAID is supporting the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) in conducting food airlifts to reach inaccessible areas in Borno State and Maiduguri city,” the statement read.
The statement also mentioned that USAID-funded partners, including international and local NGOs, are repurposing existing resources to deliver critical assistance to individuals affected by the flooding in Maiduguri and neighboring Jere Local Government Area (LGA).
“We commend the bravery and resilience of the people of Maiduguri and the tireless efforts of first responders, aid workers, and local authorities who are on the ground delivering essential services. Our thoughts remain with the people of Borno during this challenging time,” the U.S. government said in the statement.
This response comes as part of ongoing efforts to alleviate the suffering of flood victims and ensure access to basic needs such as food and healthcare.
