The Nigerian Government has issued a warning of heavy rains expected to affect 15 states across 35 locations in Nigeria, with potential flooding anticipated from September 24 to 28, 2024. This forecast comes from the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre of the Federal Ministry of Environment.
The affected states and specific locations include: “Delta State (Abraka, Agbor, Okpo-Krika, Umukwata, Umugboma, Aboh); Edo State (Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, Ilushi, Sabongidda-Ora, Uromi); Taraba State (Gembu); Kwara State (Ilorin); Kaduna State (Kauru); Kebbi State (Ribah); Zamfara State (Majara); Niger State (Mashegu, Kontagora, Lapai, Rijau, Sarkin-Pawa).”
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has also urged the Rivers State government to construct emergency shelters for flood victims. Adebiyi Razak, the South-South Zonal Coordinator, emphasized the need for these shelters to be located on safer, higher ground, equipped with essential supplies such as food and medications.
Additionally, NEMA highlighted the urgent requirement to clear drainage and natural water channels to facilitate proper water flow. They also recommended disseminating early warning information in local dialects for effective grassroots awareness.
The warning comes amid concerns about impending flooding in 11 states, triggered by the gradual release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam. States that may be impacted include Adamawa, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Taraba, and Rivers.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has established a nine-member flood committee, led by Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, tasked with coordinating emergency responses and managing the situation effectively.
