Nigeria: Hunger, Diseases Ravage Nasarawa Flood Victims As Relief Fail to Arrive

What the report says

Flood-affected communities in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, are still struggling weeks after waters receded, according to a Leadership report distributed by AllAfrica. Residents in Doma local government area say the disaster damaged homes, washed away farm produce and left drinking water contaminated, forcing many families back into damaged houses, temporary shelters or the homes of neighbors.

The report describes hunger and illness as the most urgent problems in places including Ijiwo and Obemdo. Community leaders said some residents are drinking from polluted river water because no borehole or safe alternative is available, while malaria and typhoid are widespread. A local lawmaker also said there is concern about possible cholera cases, though one community leader said no outbreak had been reported in Ijiwo at the time.

Residents and local representatives said promised government help had not yet arrived, even though state authorities were said to have approved relief. The lawmaker representing Doma South said the planned response is expected to include immediate health support and later supplies such as cement and roofing materials to help families rebuild. He attributed the delay to procurement and administrative procedures.

The article shows how flooding can create a second crisis after the water recedes, especially where farming livelihoods, clean water and housing have been damaged. It also highlights calls for urgent intervention from the state government, the federal government and non-governmental organizations.