According to Nivo News, rising floodwaters in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, have created unexpected economic opportunities for local canoe operators. With many residents displaced and communities divided by water, canoe paddlers have become essential for transporting people and goods across the city’s flooded areas.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

A field visit on Saturday revealed that fares for crossing between neighborhoods range from 30 to 200 naira, depending on the location and time of day. Key areas benefiting from canoe services include Moduganari, Fori, Polo, and Bulumkutu, among others.

Abdullahi Muhammad, who ferries passengers between Moduganari and Damboa Road, noted that while the floods pose significant challenges, they have also become a vital source of income for unemployed youths. “We are not happy that the flood restricts movement, but it is an opportunity we are taking to improve our lives,” he said, adding that daily earnings range between 10,000 and 20,000 naira, with lower earnings typically recorded on weekends.

Similarly, Shaibu Garba, a paddler operating in Bulumkutu, emphasized the role canoe operators play in assisting residents. “We help those affected by the flood move their belongings and transport them safely between communities. Many of us share the earnings at the end of the day to support our families,” he explained.

Passengers expressed general satisfaction with the fares, describing them as the most practical option for crossing flooded areas. Hauwa Saidu commented, “Using the canoe saves both time and money compared to alternative routes.” However, some commuters, like Usman Salisu of Moduganari, raised concerns over price inconsistencies, noting that fares can increase significantly at night.

Safety concerns have also been raised, particularly for children. Mustapha Suleiman warned about the absence of life jackets, noting the dangers posed when pupils cross flooded roads for school. A private school teacher, identified only as Blessing, echoed the concern, adding that rising waters could complicate school commutes if the floods persist.

In response, the Borno State government has urged residents to avoid dumping refuse into drainage systems and called for calm. Governor Babagana Zulum, during an inspection of reconstruction work at Alau Dam, reassured the public that current water levels posed no immediate risk of catastrophic flooding. “As of now, there is no cause for alarm. We are monitoring the situation closely and the contractor is doing a good job,” he said.

Residents continue to rely on canoe operators to navigate between communities, turning a challenging situation into a source of livelihood.