As relentless rains continue to inundate Nigeria, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) announced an additional $668,000 in funding to assist flood-devastated communities. Released through the Rapid Response Fund, the allocation will bolster emergency humanitarian relief in hard-hit regions, particularly Jigawa, Katsina, and Bauchi states, where the floods have left tens of thousands in urgent need of aid.
The new package will support local humanitarian efforts led by IOM’s partners, including the Relief Rescue Initiative, Safer World Foundation, and the Community Engagement and Social Development Initiative. These organisations are addressing severe flooding impacts, exacerbated by heavy seasonal rainfall.
IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission ad interim, Paola Pace, expressed deep appreciation for USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance, stating, “Their support is vital in enabling IOM and local partners to provide life-saving assistance and to help communities rebuild and recover from the catastrophic impacts of the floods.”
With over 1.3 million Nigerians affected across 34 states, the floods have claimed at least 320 lives and destroyed nearly 258,000 hectares of farmland. Displacement has reached staggering levels, forcing over 740,000 people to flee their homes, sparking an urgent need for shelter, clean water, and essential services.
In October, IOM allocated an initial $1.8 million to nine humanitarian organisations for emergency flood response. This second allocation brings IOM’s total funding for flood relief in Nigeria to over $2.4 million in 2024, providing essential aid to an estimated 228,777 flood-affected residents. The organisation’s support will deliver emergency shelter, sanitation facilities, clean water, and multi-purpose cash assistance, while also working to strengthen local resilience and recovery.
IOM is coordinating its efforts with Nigerian government agencies, local authorities, and other humanitarian bodies to ensure a comprehensive and effective response, underscoring its commitment to timely and impactful aid for those in greatest need.
