By Salifu Faridat
With the onset of heavy rains and the fulfilment of early warnings issued by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Nigerians, particularly those residing in flood-prone areas, are now facing the challenges posed by flooding.
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources had issued a warning in February, indicating that as many as 32 states were at risk of flooding this year.
Subsequently, in March, NEMA issued a severe flood warning, coinciding with NIHSA’s prediction that 178 local government areas across 32 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, were
vulnerable to flood disasters.
These timely alerts were meant to empower national and subnational governments to take concrete steps to mitigate the impact of potential flooding.
The actualization of these predictions has led to devastating consequences, with lives, houses, and properties being lost or at risk
of loss due to flood disasters.
Several states, such as Benue, Niger, Kogi, Edo, Plateau, Nasarawa, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory, have already experienced flood disasters this year.
Benue State has been significantly affected, with 22 out of its 23 local government areas facing the impact of floods. In Niger State, over 155 communities have been affected, leaving residents struggling to cope with the disaster.
Even the state capital of Edo, Benin, witnessed Governor Godwin Obaseki’s convoy being stranded as floodwaters overran the RCC junction on Sapele Road.
As the rains continue to intensify, more communities across the country are expected to experience flooding. Despite the early warnings, there is little evidence to suggest that sufficient measures were taken at the national and subnational levels to address the situation adequately.
The government and relevant agencies are now facing the challenge of responding to the flooding situation and providing relief and support to affected communities. As the rainy season progresses, it is crucial
for authorities to prioritize proactive measures to mitigate future floods and protect vulnerable areas and populations.
Citizens are also urged to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to safeguard their lives and properties during this period of increased flood risks.
With adequate preparation and coordinated
efforts, the impact of flooding can be minimized, and communities can be better equipped to cope with these natural challenges.