The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has committed over $6.5 million to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to address the urgent flood-related humanitarian needs across Nigeria.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Development Outreach and Communications Team of USAID, this funding is part of USAID’s Fiscal Year 2024 support, aimed at helping local partners respond not only to flooding but also to other disasters across the country.
The statement confirmed that IOM will allocate $3 million specifically to address the flood-related humanitarian crisis, ensuring aid reaches affected communities.
Flooding has impacted more than 619,000 people in 29 states across Nigeria since mid-August, according to the National Emergency Management Agency. The floods have tragically claimed 210 lives, displaced nearly 228,700 people, and damaged more than 84,800 homes, creating a dire need for assistance.
This response forms part of a broader humanitarian effort. In Fiscal Year 2024, USAID has already provided nearly $100 million in previously announced funding to Nigeria to support the pressing needs of communities hit by disasters, particularly flooding.
USAID Mission Director, Melissa Jones, emphasized the United States’ commitment to assisting Nigeria during this challenging time:
“The United States remains steadfast in its commitment to support the people of Nigeria as they grapple with the challenges brought on by climate change and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. Our long-standing partnership underscores our dedication to providing timely humanitarian aid.”
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Meanwhile, the Federal Government has disbursed N3 billion to the states most severely affected by the recent floods, intended to alleviate the suffering of their citizens.
This was disclosed on Wednesday during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held at the State House in Abuja.
The meeting, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima, was attended by several governors, deputy governors, and key ministers.
Notable figures such as Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Industries Limited, were also present to deliver presentations during the session.
The NEC directed an inventory to assess the extent of flood damage, with Northern states identified as the worst hit by the disaster, with significant loss of life and property.
In addition, the NEC Committee on Flood has been reconstituted, with Vice President Shettima now serving as Chairman.
Members of the Committee include Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, and Governor Douyi Diri of Bayelsa State.
Other members include the Ministers of State for Water Resources, and the governors of Bauchi, Jigawa, and Bayelsa, as well as representatives from relevant government agencies.
