FG writes govs as agency predicts flooding in 31 states
The Federal Government has alerted 31 governors about the imminent threat of flooding in their states from April to November this year. The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Utsev, revealed this during a briefing in Abuja on the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook. According to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, 148 local government areas across Lagos, Kano, Delta, and 28 other states are categorized as high flood-risk areas.
To mitigate the impact of flooding, various state governments are taking proactive measures. This includes demolishing buildings on river channels, relocating residents, and clearing drainages. Utsev highlighted that 31 states have areas classified as high flood-risk locations, while the remaining states and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to experience moderate flooding.
The high flood-risk states include 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.
The flood risk is expected to be particularly high from April to November 2024, with severe impacts on population, agriculture, livelihoods, livestock, infrastructure, and the environment. Flash and urban floods are anticipated in city centers across the country, including Abakaliki, Abeokuta, Abuja, Asaba, Benin City, Birnin-Kebbi, Calabar, Ibadan, Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Makurdi, Nguru, Onitsha, Oshogbo, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Warri, and Yola.
Coastal flooding is also projected in Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, and Ondo due to rising sea levels and tidal surges, affecting fishing, wildlife, and river navigation.
Flood area
The Federal Government has informed governors about the flood situation in their respective states, urging them to make necessary preparations to mitigate the impact. Letters and publications detailing flood-prone areas and expected levels of flooding have been dispatched to governors.
The Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Clement Nze, emphasized the importance of proactive measures to minimize flood impacts. He called for collaboration among stakeholders and highlighted the need for environmental cleanliness, proper waste management, and flood forecasting to mitigate flood risks.
Several state governments have already begun awareness campaigns and preparations. In Sokoto State, the Emergency Management Agency has created awareness in flood-prone communities. Benue State has formed a committee to avert flooding, while Plateau State urges residents to vacate flood-prone areas. Rivers State has established a standing committee to coordinate flood response efforts.
In Lagos State, the government has directed residents along flood plains to be ready for relocation. The state has intensified drainage maintenance and solid waste management to prevent flooding. Similarly, Edo and Osun states are reviewing their flood management plans and taking steps to avert potential flooding incidents.
Overall, concerted efforts are underway at both the federal and state levels to address the looming threat of flooding and minimize its impact on lives and livelihoods.
Punch News
