The Federal Government has issued a strong warning to states and local government areas to prepare for significant flooding as the rainy season reaches its peak. The alert was delivered by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, during a news conference held on Thursday in Abuja.
Prof. Utsev emphasized the need for immediate precautionary measures to prevent potential disasters. He revealed that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had recently released the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook, highlighting areas at high risk.
Governors have been briefed on detailed flood forecasts and specific preventive strategies tailored for their regions. According to the report, 148 local government areas in 31 states, including Adamawa, Akwa-Ibom, and Anambra, face significant flood risks. The flood scenarios outlined in the report span from April to November, with the most severe risks expected between July and September.
“Over 10 states and the FCT have already experienced varying levels of flooding since April, resulting in casualties and property damage. Notable incidents include the flooding in Trademore Estate, FCT, which led to two deaths and significant property loss,” stated Prof. Utsev.
He urged state and local governments to step up their flood prevention efforts. This includes clearing blocked drainage systems, relocating residents from flood-prone areas, and building flood barriers. The minister also warned of expected flooding from major rivers like Niger and Benue, stressing the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive actions.
Additionally, Prof. Utsev highlighted concerns about increased rainfall worsening the ongoing cholera outbreak, which has already resulted in 63 deaths and 2,102 suspected cases. A presidential committee has been established to address cholera and other waterborne diseases linked to flooding. This committee, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, has developed comprehensive disaster management strategies that are ready for implementation.
Efforts to enhance public health and sanitation include the Clean Nigeria Use the Toilet campaign and the activation of national laboratories. The Director General of NIHSA, Mr. Clement Nze, reiterated the federal government’s advisory role, pointing out that enforcement and action are the responsibility of state governments. He mentioned ongoing federal projects, such as constructing buffer dams alongside the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, aimed at mitigating flood risks.
NIHSA’s report identifies the 31 states at high risk of flooding as Adamawa, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, and Yobe.