The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) on Monday, urged the government and key stakeholders to promptly implement measures to ensure public health safety following severe flooding in Maiduguri last week.
Dr. El-Yakub Yakubu Mohammed, Chairman of the Borno State Council, issued a statement expressing sympathy for those displaced by the flood. He stated the critical need for proper hygiene and sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks such as cholera.
Dr. El-Yakub voiced concerns about reports from various internally displaced persons (IDP) camps within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, which suggest a potential public health crisis. He stressed the urgency for the Borno State Government to address the health risks stemming from the flood.
“The NMA Borno State Branch is calling on the Borno State Government to take immediate action in addressing the public health crisis that may arise as an aftermath of the flood.
“With thousands of people displaced, living in overcrowded conditions, and lacking access to clean water and sanitation facilities, there is a heightened risk of disease outbreaks, including cholera, malaria, and other waterborne and vector-borne diseases.
“The government’s swift intervention is crucial in deploying more healthcare resources, strengthening disease surveillance, and ensuring that adequate preventive measures are in place to protect the health and well-being of the vulnerable populations in the affected areas,” he stated.
The NMA Borno State Branch pledged its full support and urged its members to be ready to provide medical services both at the IDP camps and within their local communities.