Worst floods on record hit Nigeria – over 1.4 million people affected and about 500 dead

Nigeria is experiencing its worst floods on record this rainy season, with more than 1.4 million people affected and 800 000 displaced. 27 out of the 36 states in the country are experiencing flooding, with Kogi the worst affected.

According to the permanent secretary of Nigeria’s ministry of humanitarian affairs and disaster management, Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the floods affected vast swathes of the country this season, sparking fears they could worsen food insecurity and inflation.

About 500 people have lost their lives and 1 546 were injured, Sani-Gwarzo said in a statement. Additionally, more than 1.4 million were affected and 790 254 displaced.

The floods damaged 44 900 houses and destroyed 45 249, as of October 9, 2022.

As much as 70 566 ha (174 372 acres) of farmland and crops were destroyed and 76 168 ha (188 215 acres) were damaged.

The secretary said this high level of damage was caused, in part, because people violated regional planning rules and constructed homes and buildings near waterways.

While the rainy season usually begins around June, most deaths and displacements started around August and September, National Emergency Management Agency spokesman Manzo Ezekiel said.

More rains and floods are expected before the season ends in December.

Featured image credit: TVC News Nigeria (stillshot)