United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), said more than 2.5 million Nigerians affected by flooding in the past decade are at risk of waterborne diseases, drowning and malnutrition, adding that they need humanitarian assistance.
According to a post on Twitter by UNICEF Nigeria, the flood has affected 34 out of 36 states in the country and has drowned over 600 people, while 200,000 houses were damaged.
Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria said, “Children and adolescents in flood-affected areas are in an extremely vulnerable situation. They are particularly at risk of waterborne diseases and emotional and psychological distress. UNICEF is working closely with the Government and other partners to provide life-saving assistance to those who are most in need.”
Also read: UNICEF: “Nigeria Has Over 7m Learners With only 154,000 Teachers”
Munduate said, Immediate priority needs for children include health, water, sanitation, and hygiene; as well as shelter and food. Additional funding and resources are required to respond to growing needs and to sustain ongoing humanitarian interventions, with a focus on the most vulnerable, including children with disabilities.
