UN Chief saddens, consoles Nigerians, Government over flooding

The United States Secretary General, Antonio Guterres has expressed sadness to learn about the recent flooding in Nigeria, saying it’s the worst in a decade.

In a statement released by the UN Spokesman to the Secretary General, Stephane Dujarric on Friday, while extended his deepest condolences to the Government of Nigeria and to the affected families.

According to Guterres, “Hundreds of lives and livelihoods have been lost, 1.3 million people have been displaced, and more than 2.8 million people have been impacted by the floods.

“Infrastructure and farmland have also been damaged, worsening the cost of living across Nigeria”, the UN Chief said.

He reiterated the United Nations continued commitment to supporting the Government of Nigeria in this challenging time.

Meanwhile, Nigerian authorities said Rivers, Anambra, Delta, Cross River and Bayelsa states remain at risk of flooding until the end of November.

The flooding has killed more than 600 people, displaced around 1.4 million and damaged or destroyed 440,000 hectares of farmland.

Health officials also warned that it could worsen an ongoing cholera outbreak, and even natural gas exports are at risk.