Nigeria Braces for Increased Flooding as Rainy Season Peaks

Nigeria’s federal government has urged states and local governments to prepare for more severe river flooding as the rainy season reaches its peak.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, issued the warning during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday. He emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures to prevent disasters.

States were notified based on the recent 2024 Annual Flood Outlook published by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). According to the report, 148 local government areas across 31 states face significant flood risks. This includes regions like Adamawa, Akwa-Ibom, and Anambra.

The outlook predicts heightened flooding risks between April and November, with the most severe flooding anticipated from July to September.

“Over ten states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have already experienced varying degrees of flooding since April, resulting in casualties and property damage,” Utsev said. “The flooding in Trademore Estate, FCT, which caused two deaths and significant property loss, is a notable example.”

This is the all mighty Lagos ISLAND that people pay millions to live in?

How do people function like this??

Flooding’s happen in most countries but this, is a river. 🤨#Flooding #LagosIsland #Nigeria pic.twitter.com/5OFh7atBGU

— HBones Media (@HbonesMedia) July 3, 2024

The Minister stressed the need for states and local governments to intensify flood prevention efforts. This includes clearing blocked drainage systems, relocating residents from high-risk areas, and constructing flood barriers. He highlighted the potential for flooding from major rivers like the Niger and Benue, urging continuous monitoring and proactive measures.

Utsev also raised concerns that increased rainfall could worsen the ongoing cholera outbreak, which has already caused 63 deaths and over 2,102 suspected cases. A presidential committee has been formed to address cholera and other waterborne diseases linked to flooding.

The government is taking a multifaceted approach to address the situation. This includes a realigned 2023 flood report leading to a new committee focused on broader disaster management, the “Clean Nigeria Use the Toilet” campaign, and the activation of national laboratories to improve public health and sanitation.

While the federal government provides guidance and resources, Mr. Clement Nze, Director General of NIHSA, emphasized that enforcement and local action remain the responsibility of individual states. The federal government will continue its efforts to construct buffer dams alongside the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon to mitigate flood risks.

Credit: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)