The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is urging states in the North-central and southern regions of Nigeria to brace for possible floods that could threaten communities downstream. This warning comes in response to rising water levels in the Rivers Benue and Niger and recent floods that have wreaked havoc across several states.
In a statement released on Friday, NEMA highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that states such as Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa are at high risk of flooding in the coming weeks. The agency emphasized that proactive measures are crucial to minimize the impact of future floods, which have previously led to devastating losses including loss of lives, displacement of communities, and significant damage to property and infrastructure.
The agency is collaborating with state emergency management agencies and other key stakeholders through the National Emergency Operations Centre at NEMA’s headquarters. Their goal is to ensure that effective rescue and relief operations are in place for affected communities.
NEMA’s advisory includes several critical actions:
- Clearing Blocked Drainages: Immediate action to remove debris and ensure water flow.
- Constructing Temporary Flood Barriers: Building barriers to protect vulnerable areas.
- Evacuating Flood Plains: Moving communities to higher, safer ground.
Communities are also advised to stay informed by following weather updates and flood warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
In response to the warning, some states, such as Bayelsa, have already begun taking preventive measures. Reports indicate that swamp boogies are actively clearing blocked water channels to reduce the risk of flooding.
NEMA’s alert underscores the importance of preparedness and swift action to safeguard lives and property from the devastating effects of flooding.
