The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has called for urgent support for victims affected by the devastating flood in Maiduguri.

The president of the NRCS, Oluyemisi Adeaga, said this in a statement issued by the coordinator, communications and advocacy of NRCS, Chima Nwankwo, on Wednesday in Abuja.

Adeaga appealed to Nigerians to respond promptly to avert a humanitarian crisis.

The flooding was due to the heavy downpour, which has submerged more than half of the city and displaced thousands of residents.

“As we continue to provide aid and comfort to those in need, the NRCS passionately appeals for additional support from the public, private sector, and international community.

“The scale of this disaster necessitates a comprehensive response to ensure that all affected individuals receive the assistance they require,” he said.

Mr Adeaga said that the NRCS was committed to standing with the people of Maiduguri during this challenging time.

“We are doing everything within our capacity to provide relief and restore hope to the affected communities, but the magnitude of this crisis calls for collective action.

“We have, in collaboration with local authorities and other humanitarian partners, deployed emergency response teams to the most affected areas,” the president said.

Also, the secretary-general of NRCS, Abubakar Kende, said that the society was providing critical support.

“The support includes First aid services, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services, emergency shelters and psychosocial support.”

Mr Kende said that the NRCS was working with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to set up temporary shelters and provide essential relief supplies, including clean water, food, and non-food items to displaced families.

“We stand in solidarity with the people affected by the floods in different areas in Borno with those, who lost loved ones, were displaced, and those who lost their properties due to the flood.

“We also stand in solidarity with our own volunteers and staff, who are affected yet are reporting to duty while attending to the needs of their families,” Mr Kende said.

(NAN)