By Halima Imam
The flood that devastated Maiduguri in recent days is not just a natural disaster; it’s a heartbreaking tragedy that has disrupted lives, destroyed homes, and left many wondering how to rebuild from the ruins. This is not just a story of rising waters, but one of our brothers and sisters, people like you and me, who now stand vulnerable, their lives submerged in uncertainty.
Families who once had a place to call home now wander through displacement camps, struggling to understand how overnight, they became homeless. Parents hold their children tightly, shielding them from the chaos of overcrowded shelters, while the elderly sit quietly, their eyes filled with despair, memories of what was, and fear of what’s to come. The waters have stolen more than possessions, they have taken peace of mind, security, and even hope.
The emotional weight of this tragedy hits harder because it is a grim reminder of how much we, as a nation, need to do to combat the worsening effects of climate change and inadequate infrastructure. We have heard the warnings, seen the forecasts, yet we find ourselves repeatedly in this cycle of destruction. The numbers tell a horrifying story: over a million people affected and 200,000 people displaced, hundreds of homes swept away, and critical farmlands submerged. For many of these families, it was their only source of livelihood.
But statistics cannot capture the pain in a mother’s voice as she wonders where her children’s next meal will come from. They cannot show the sleepless nights spent in makeshift shelters, listening to the cries of others who have lost everything, too. These are not just figures; they are human lives, our fellow country men and women.
We must ask ourselves: What if it was us? What if it was our homes, our families? Would we not call for help, for someone to lend a hand in our darkest hour?
In this moment, we have an opportunity to act. To show that Nigerians, no matter where we are, do not abandon each other in times of need. The people of Maiduguri are resilient, but they need us now more than ever. Your donations, no matter how small, can be the lifeline that helps a family back on their feet. Funds will go toward providing food, clean water, clothing, and shelter for those left without.
Let us remember that in a nation as large and diverse as Nigeria, solidarity is our greatest strength. We cannot change what the floodwaters have done, but we can change what happens next. Please, if you can, donate to verified and verifiable accounts going around. Together, we can bring hope back to the people of Maiduguri.
We cannot undo the damage caused by the floods, but it’s about standing together as one, proving that in Nigeria, we never let our own suffer in silence. Every contribution counts, whether it’s providing a child with a warm meal, a family with blankets and shelter, or access to clean drinking water.
As the floodwaters recede, the scars they leave behind will take time to heal. But healing begins with us. Our collective action can ensure that the people of Maiduguri know they are not forgotten, that their cries have been heard, and that help is on the way.
Imagine being in their shoes, your home washed away, your possessions gone, and your future uncertain. It’s a reality too many in Maiduguri are facing right now. But with our support, they can begin to rebuild, start to dream again, and have faith that tomorrow will be better.
Now is the time for us to step up, to give, and to spread the word. The people of Maiduguri need us, and they need us fast. Let’s not wait for another day to pass. If you can, please donate. Your kindness will go a long way in restoring hope to those who have lost so much.
As Nigerians, we are known for our resilience, our strength, and our ability to come together in times of crisis. Let’s rise to this challenge once again and show that when we stand united, no flood can wash away our compassion or our commitment to each other.
Donate now and make a difference for the people of Maiduguri. Together, we can turn the tide of this tragedy.
*Imam, Founder of Climate Action Team, writes from axk4lima@gmail.com
