The Borno State Government has announced a two-week closure of all schools, both government and private, due to severe flooding in the region.
The decision follows significant leakage at the Alo Dam, a crucial reservoir fed by Lake Chad, which has been compromised by recent heavy rains.
The Palace of Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Garbai Elkenemi, and other parts of Maiduguri, the capital city of Borno State were reportedly submerged by flood in the early hours of Tuesday.
It was learnt from residents that the Shehu has left his palace to the Government House where he is currently taking refuge.
A resident of Kofar Shehu said, “This is shocking! I have never witnessed this before. Even the Shehu has left his palace to the Government House.”
The Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation issued a statement regarding the closure.
Acting Director of School Services, Grema Bulama, noted that the closure affects schools that had just begun their 2024/2025 academic session on September 9.
The inspection of the dam, led by Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijjani at the behest of Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum, revealed extensive damage. “The situation at the Alo Dam has worsened, necessitating immediate action to ensure the safety of students and staff,” Bulama said.
This follows similar school closures in Edo and Kano States, where disruptions were caused by a rise in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol.
