Nigeria: ACN asks for prayers after Maiduguri floods  

Maiduguri, Nigeria, known for having been the hub of Boko Haram, is now grappling with a devastating flood, which has engulfed significant parts of the city, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral Church. The catastrophic event is believed to be the result of damage to the Alau Dam, located a few miles from Maiduguri. 

According to media reports, Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, faces its most severe flooding since 1994, leaving Borno residents on high alert, as countless houses are completely submerged. As the crisis continues, the pontifical foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) urgently asks for prayers and support for the people affected. 

ACN, which has backed the local church in reconstruction efforts after years of Boko Haram attacks, has contacted the local church to determine the extent of the damage and the immediate needs of the people. The organization is committed to providing assistance and relief to those affected by this natural disaster. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral Church, along with its rectory, have also been severely damaged, and priests are being forced to seek shelter on higher ground.  

In addition to the floods, residents have been warned about animals that were swept away from the city’s zoo due to the flooding. Crocodiles and snakes, among others, have been spotted in several areas, posing a significant threat to the community’s safety. 

The Alau Dam, built between 1984 and 1986, is in the Alau community of the Konduga Local Government Area in Borno State. It serves as a crucial reservoir on the Ngadda River, one of Lake Chad’s tributaries. 

– Maria Lozano