The Swiss Government has announced a commitment of $1.2 million for multi-sectoral assistance to flood victims in Nigeria. Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Nicolas Lang, revealed this initiative in a statement, highlighting its response to the severe devastation caused by recent flooding, particularly in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in northeast Nigeria.
Ambassador Lang indicated that the funding would be directed through the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund, which is managed by the United Nations. He noted, “This contribution will complement the efforts of the Nigerian Government to respond to the crisis. Flood-affected people will be provided with multi-sectoral assistance to meet their immediate basic needs. This will include health, water and sanitation measures to prevent the spread of a cholera outbreak, temporary shelter, food security, as well as protection services.”
Expressing satisfaction with Switzerland’s role in alleviating the suffering of flood-impacted communities, Lang added, “This contribution to the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund will come in direct support of the Government’s efforts to provide immediate life-saving assistance. Providing such humanitarian support has been a key pillar of our close and longstanding relationship with Nigeria.”
The Swiss Government is also exploring opportunities to bolster disaster preparedness initiatives. “With its ability to swiftly disburse funds and select the most relevant partners, including local organisations, I am confident that the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund will be an effective vehicle to provide immediate relief to the thousands of affected people in dire need of humanitarian assistance” he stated.
The announcement follows a devastating flood in Maiduguri on September 9, 2024, triggered by the eruption of the Alau dam, which left hundreds of thousands homeless, destroyed 70 percent of farmlands, and left many missing.