APRA commiserates with Nigeria, Cameroon over devastating floods
The African Public Relations Association (APRA), the principal organisation representing public relations practitioners across Africa, has issued a heartfelt statement of sympathy to the Governments and citizens of Nigeria and Cameroon in light of the severe flooding affecting these nations.
This distressing situation has recently intensified in Borno State and other regions of Nigeria’s Northeast zone, as well as in Cameroon’s Far North Province, notably impacting the city of Yagoua, the capital of Mayo Danay Department.
In a statement released by APRA, the organisation voiced deep concern over the tragic consequences of the floods.
“APRA laments the occurrence of the distressing floods caused by the collapse of a dam in Maiduguri and in Mayo Danay after torrential rains,” the statement read.
The floods have had a catastrophic impact, resulting in numerous fatalities, widespread displacement, and significant disruptions to local ecosystems.
The APRA report highlighted the severe effects of the floods on both human and environmental fronts. In Maiduguri and surrounding areas, markets have been devastated, affecting livelihoods and causing economic instability.
Additionally, the floods led to the escape of wildlife, including snakes and other dangerous reptiles, following the partial destruction of a zoo. The situation in Cameroon is equally dire, with over a hundred primary and secondary schools affected, as well as extensive damage to livestock, infrastructure, and local economies.
The association also expressed grave concern over the recurrence of such disasters, noting the recent collapse of the Arba’at Dam in Sudan, which similarly led to fatalities and displacement.
“APRA is determined to work with all governments, institutions, and other stakeholders within and outside the continent to address communication management on climate change and other critical issues essential to securing livelihoods and enhancing growth across Africa,” the statement affirmed.
Earlier this year, APRA had convened with various stakeholders to establish specialised committees aimed at addressing specific challenges faced by African communities. One such committee focuses on the African Union and related linkages.
Through this committee, APRA plans to leverage its observer status with the African Union to improve communication strategies and address the pressing needs of affected regions.
APRA expressed solidarity with the affected regions, praising the efforts of the central and local governments in both Nigeria and Cameroon, as well as the responses from international partners.
“On behalf of all members, the Executive Council of APRA hereby sends sincere condolences to those who lost family members and friends, and wishes the displaced, the injured, and those whose livelihoods have been affected a speedy recovery,” the statement concluded.
