By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Ministry of Environment has issued a comprehensive public health advisory in response to the worsening flood crisis affecting 29 states across Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako, gave the health advisory on Wednesday during a media briefing Abuja.
He raised concerns about the growing risk of disease outbreaks as millions of Nigerians face severe environmental hazards caused by the flooding which left over one million people displaced and nearly 300 dead.
The advisory follows what has been described as the worst flooding episode in Nigeria in 30 years, with significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods. “The situation is worrisome, especially with the potential for more worrisome flood-related diseases,” the minister warned.
He cited the spread of waterborne illnesses such as cholera and diarrhoea, as well as diseases like malaria and hepatitis that may proliferate in flood-affected areas.
Dr. Salako noted that communities in Borno, Bauchi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, and Jigawa are among the worst hit, and warned of both immediate and long-term health risks.
The advisory calls for vigilance against a range of diseases, including malaria, hookworm, and hepatitis, which are likely to increase due to contamination of water sources and the disruption of sanitary infrastructure.
The ministry has deployed a team of experts to assist with post-flood health interventions, including environmental health officers and pollution control specialists. This team will work closely with local authorities to clear blocked drains, monitor water contamination, and carry out health surveillance in affected communities.
“Floodwaters have introduced chemical hazards into water bodies, including heavy metals, agrochemical products, and even radioactive materials washed from hospitals and industrial sites,” Dr. Salako added.
These contaminants, he warned, pose serious health risks such as respiratory illnesses, cancer, and other chronic conditions.
The Ministry’s health advisory also includes extensive preventive measures for households, communities, and individuals to mitigate the impact of the flood. Communities have been urged to establish environmental health and sanitation committees, clear public drains, monitor water levels, and educate residents on hygiene practices.
At the household level, the advisory recommends keeping homes free from dangerous animals displaced by the floods, raising electrical outlets to avoid electrocution, and ensuring safe water for consumption through boiling or chlorination. Individuals are advised to wear protective gear, stay informed, and seek medical attention if symptoms of illness arise.
The Ministry is circulating the advisory in handbills, which will be translated into local languages, including Hausa, for widespread distribution.
In line with the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, President Bola Tinubu has directed all ministries and agencies to intensify efforts to mitigate the disaster’s impact.
The Ministry of Environment is mobilising technical and material support, including wildlife conservationists, erosion control officers, and emergency management teams, to assist in the collective response.