Heavy rains have caused many rivers in Nigeria to burst their banks, leading to devastating floods. Hundreds of people have died and many have lost all their possessions. The Basel Mission – German Branch (BMDZ) is supporting emergency relief efforts on the ground and is appealing for donations. 

Nigeria has been ravaged by heavy rainfall since June 2022. The rains are normal during this time of year since it is the rainy season, but this year they have been particularly heavy. Currently, 34 of the 36 states and about 3.2 million people are affected by floods in Africa's most populous country. Around 1.4 million people have been made homeless and need humanitarian aid. Cholera outbreaks have been reported in several states. Contaminated water and the lack of sewage systems further increase the risk of cholera and other water-borne diseases.  

Short-term and long-term aid 

The livelihoods of many people, especially small-scale farming families, are under immediate threat. The heavy rains followed by flooding have not only destroyed this year’s upcoming harvest of rice, millet, soybeans and peanuts but also the seeds they give for the next sowing season. On top of all that, since schools and healthcare centres have been flooded, children are unable to attend school and the sick have no access to medical care.  

The "Church of the Brethren in Nigeria" (Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria / EYN), a partner church of the BMDZ, has launched relief measures in the communities affected. Action needs to be taken immediately. Thousands of people are suffering from hunger and are dependent on the supply of food from outside. In addition to medical care and hygiene items, clothing, blankets and mosquito nets are also urgently needed.  And of course, homes, schools, hospitals, bridges and roads must be rebuilt.  

Commitment with big challenges 

Seeds must be distributed to farmers free of charge to prevent future disasters caused by famine. Another focus is on prevention. To better prepare the inhabitants of flood-prone regions against future floods, they must be made more aware of precautionary measures. Providing humanitarian aid is a major challenge for local organisations like EYN in many respects. Bridges and roads have been destroyed, making access difficult. In addition, aid convoys in north-eastern Nigeria are frequently attacked by Boko Haram and other armed groups. 

The Church of the Brethren (EYN) is a young and fast-growing church based in north-eastern Nigeria. It was founded in 1923 and meanwhile offers a spiritual home to over two million members. Since 1959, its work has been supported by the Basel Mission. The focus of its work is on rural development, healthcare supply, schooling and vocational training. The BMDZ is appealing for donations on behalf of the EYN to provide direct aid to the people affected by the flood disaster. Thank you so much for your support! 

BMDZ Donation Account  
IBAN: DE91 5206 0410 0000 0011 80   
Keyword: Nigeria Flood Relief