By Grace Samuel
The Nigerian Federal Government has recently disclosed a comprehensive report identifying 31 states that are projected to experience heavy flooding in 2024.
According to the Minister of Water Resources, Prof Joseph Utsev, these states encompass a total of 148 Local Government Areas deemed as high-risk flood zones.
The 2024 Annual Flood Outlook report, compiled by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, outlines the vulnerable states susceptible to severe flooding.
Notable states on the list 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.
This announcement serves to alert citizens and relevant stakeholders about potential flood risks in these identified regions.
The government emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to mitigate flooding impacts and ensure public safety.
The Minister also highlighted the forecasted period for severe flooding, spanning from April to November 2024.
This forecast covers the majority of Nigeria’s 249 Local Government Areas across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with certain regions classified as moderate flood risk areas, although specifics were not provided.
This announcement follows the widespread flooding experienced throughout Nigeria in 2022, affecting 33 out of the country’s 36 states and displacing over two million people.
In response, the government urges citizens to implement necessary precautions and preparedness measures to minimize potential flooding consequences.
This proactive approach aims to enhance public awareness and facilitate coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of anticipated flooding, safeguarding lives and property across the affected states.