Prepare For More Flooding FG Warns, As Over 1m People Affected
By Kelvin Alohan
The Federal Government has warned that the flooding currently devastating some states may get worse, advising citizens and state governments to adhere strictly to safety and mitigation advisory.
The government stressed that as the threat of flooding may increase due to forecast trends, States, Local Governments, stakeholders and all citizens are urged to relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains, avoid traveling to flood-prone areas, follow evacuation orders and desilt drainage systems.
The government further cautioned citizens to avoid crossing heavy run-off flow as well as cut-off highways, stay informed through official channels and adhere to flood forecasts as well as to adequately report all incidences of flooding.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, who expressed condolences to the families of the fatalities recorded, assured that the federal government is working closely with State Governments, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and International Development Partners to minimize the impact of flooding as well as support affected communities.
According to the minister, the flood disaster serves as a stark reminder of the need for immediate collective action to address the effects of climate change, which has led to heavier-than-normal rainfall and further environmental degradation, adding that the ministry will continue to keep Nigerians informed so as to enable the country mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Giving a situation update, Lawal stated that the 2024 flood season has been particularly severe, with many states across the country experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding.
He disclosed that the NEMA has reported that over one million people have been affected, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions of Naira destroyed, adding that “The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding before our eyes.”
The minister said that as is the usual practice, in anticipation of the 2024 flooding season, the federal ministry of environment took proactive measures to mitigate its impact, noting that on March 27, 2024, the Ministry sent letters to all State Governments, including the FCT Administration, urging them to conduct flood awareness campaigns.
He explained that the campaigns aimed to ensure the clearing of drainage and manhole systems, relocation of vulnerable populations from floodplains and activation of emergency preparedness measures by NEMA, SEMA, and other relevant agencies.
“The Federal Ministry of Environment’s National Flood Early Warning Systems Center recently issued a flood alert on September 4, identifying 21 states as high-risk zones for flooding between September 4-8, 2024. In response to this alert, the Ministry promptly notified the affected states and stakeholders, urging them to take necessary precautions. Additionally, residents living in floodplains along the River Niger and River Benue were advised to evacuate immediately due to the imminent risk of flooding caused by rising river levels,” Lawal explained.
Describing the Alau Dam flooding is a heartbreaking tragedy, the minister said the unfortunate overflow of the dam has severely affected several communities, causing displacement and property damage.
“We are working closely with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide support and bring succor to affected communities. We urge all relevant stakeholders responsible for recovery efforts to join us in this endeavour. Additionally, we advise those who may be affected to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety,” Lawal said.
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