ABUJA, Nigeria (CHATNEWSTV) — The European Union has announced €1 million in emergency humanitarian funding to support Nigeria’s response to devastating floods and a worsening cholera epidemic, officials said in a statement on Friday.
“This funding will help deliver essential aid, including shelter, water, sanitation, hygiene services, and healthcare to those most affected by both crises,” the EU said in the press release sent to CHATNEWSTV.
Flood Relief
Half of the funding, €500,000, is earmarked for relief efforts in Kogi, Delta, and Anambra states, which were hit by severe floods in October. More than 78,000 people have been affected, thousands of homes destroyed, and crops nearing harvest wiped out, especially in regions near the Niger and Benue Rivers.
“Floodwaters remain high, creating ongoing risks,” the EU statement said, adding that the funds will assist in providing food, shelter, water, and protection services while replenishing emergency stocks to prepare for potential future flooding.
The EU had previously allocated €1.1 million in September to address flooding impacts in Nigeria’s Northeast and Northwest regions as part of a broader response to West and Central African crises.
Cholera Outbreak
The remaining €500,000 will support efforts to combat a cholera epidemic that has ravaged areas like Borno and Yobe states, where overcrowding in camps for displaced persons and poor water conditions have fueled the disease’s spread.
“Flooding has exacerbated cholera outbreaks in areas with inadequate sanitation,” the EU said, emphasizing its support for medical care, cholera treatment centers, and vaccination campaigns.
The outbreak has strained Nigeria’s health system, leaving vulnerable populations in dire need of medical and hygiene interventions.
A Growing Crisis
Nigeria is grappling with twin emergencies: floods affecting over 1.3 million people nationwide and a cholera outbreak that has compounded challenges in flood-prone areas.
“These crises underscore the urgent need for international solidarity,” the EU noted, bringing its total humanitarian aid to Nigeria in 2024 to €48.7 million.
The EU remains the world’s leading donor of humanitarian aid, providing critical support through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations department.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
