The National Emergency Management Agency has issued a crucial warning to communities at risk of flooding, particularly those residing near waterways, advising them to relocate to higher ground as the rainy season reaches its peak.
The agency released alarming statistics through its Emergency Operations Centre, indicating that severe flooding has already impacted 27 states across Nigeria, affecting over 227,000 people and damaging thousands of homes and farmlands.
In a press release titled “Update on Flood Across the Country,” shared on NEMA’s X (formerly Twitter) account, the Director General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing the necessary support for efficient disaster management in the face of this growing crisis.
“NEMA has responded swiftly to the recent flood incidents that have devastated communities nationwide. We have commenced the assessment of the impacts alongside the State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) to ensure timely and appropriate support reaches those affected,” Umar stated.
The release highlighted NEMA’s proactive approach in coordinating relief operations with SEMAs and deploying search and rescue teams. Additionally, all NEMA zonal and operation offices have been placed on high alert as the agency intensifies its response efforts.
To mitigate the effects of flooding, NEMA has also begun the distribution of relief materials to complement state government efforts in assisting displaced persons and those whose properties have been damaged by the floods.
Moreover, the agency emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding solid waste management. “NEMA will continue public sensitization efforts, including grassroots awareness campaigns and workshops, to educate communities on the importance of clearing blocked drainages and waterways to prevent further flooding,” the statement added.
In light of the temporary dry spell affecting some states, Umar reassured farmers not to panic, referencing the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet) climate predictions, which indicate that the situation will soon stabilize.
“NEMA calls on all stakeholders, including SEMAs and community leaders, to be prepared for a rapid flood response as the rainy season progresses,” Umar urged, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance.
