By Abdullahi Lukman
As Nigeria approaches the peak of its rainy season, fresh concerns have emerged over large-scale flooding, with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) warning that several states remain at high risk.
The situation is further complicated by continuous rainfall and the planned release of excess water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam.
Despite repeated disasters in 2012, 2022, and 2023 that displaced hundreds of thousands and caused widespread devastation, many residents in flood-prone areas continue to resist evacuation.
Factors such as poverty, fear of theft, and lack of alternatives are driving their refusal to leave, even as government agencies prepare emergency shelters and awareness campaigns.
From Akwa Ibom to Kogi, officials have launched various mitigation efforts—clearing drainage systems, setting up IDP camps, and deploying flood monitoring technologies—but reluctance to relocate remains a major challenge.
In Akwa Ibom, Uyo and Itu LGAs have already experienced flooding despite early warnings. In Benue and Anambra, efforts to inform and relocate residents have met resistance.
Lagos reported ₦150 million in flood-related losses among fish farmers, yet floodplain communities in Lekki and Ikorodu remain occupied. In Bayelsa, ₦450 million has been allocated for relief, but many still live in unsafe shelters.
States like Kaduna, Kogi, Edo, and Delta have activated dredging and resettlement efforts, with dozens of IDP camps ready, but compliance remains low.
In total, billions of naira are being spent on temporary measures, while long-term solutions like embankments, river dredging, and permanent resettlements remain under-implemented.
Experts warn that without stronger enforcement and long-term planning, Nigeria risks repeating its cycle of avoidable flood disasters.
