By Abbas Nazil
Government authorities and residents across Nigeria’s North Central states are intensifying preparedness efforts as forecasts warn of heavy rainfall, possible flooding, and infrastructure strain in several communities.
Officials say emergency response systems are being strengthened in vulnerable states including Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Kogi, where seasonal flooding has previously displaced thousands and damaged farmlands and roads.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has also reportedly issued early advisories to state governments to clear drainages, relocate communities in high-risk floodplains, and pre-position relief materials ahead of peak rainfall periods.
NatureNews gathered from the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja that Benue, Kogi and Nasarawa states are among areas expected to experience early rainfall onset and longer rainy seasons this year, increasing the risk of flooding and ecological disruptions in vulnerable communities.
The NiMet forecast also warned of erratic rainfall patterns, above-normal temperatures and possible flash floods across several parts of the country. Director General of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, explained that the forecast was developed using global climate indicators including the El Niño–Southern Oscillation and Indian Ocean Dipole, while noting that the agency is expanding digital climate advisory services to support farmers and disaster preparedness efforts nationwide.
In Makurdi, Benue State, rice farmer Daniel Aondo said preparations on farmlands have become more cautious this year due to unpredictable rainfall patterns and recurring flood losses.
“We are trying to harvest early and build small drainage channels around our farms because last year’s flood destroyed almost everything,” Aondo said.
In Lafia, Nasarawa State, market trader Halima Musa expressed concern over rising water levels that often disrupt supply chains and increase food prices during the rainy season.
“Whenever it rains heavily, goods become expensive because transport is affected and some roads are not passable,” Musa said.
In Jos, Plateau State, a State Emergency Management Agency officer, Jonah Gyang, said coordination with local communities has improved, with awareness campaigns on evacuation routes and flood safety already ongoing.
“We are working with community leaders to identify risky areas early and ensure people know where to go if flooding becomes severe,” Gyang said.
In Lokoja, Kogi State, resident Ibrahim Sule described repeated flooding as a yearly struggle, urging stronger government investment in drainage systems and riverbank protection.
“We are tired of losing homes and belongings every year. What we need is long-term infrastructure, not just warnings,” Sule said.
Across the region, analysts note that poor urban planning, blocked waterways, and climate variability continue to worsen the impact of seasonal rains despite repeated government interventions.
Emergency agencies have also advised residents to avoid building on floodplains and to maintain clean drainage systems as part of community responsibility in reducing disaster risks.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has previously warned that rainfall in the North Central zone could exceed average levels this season, increasing the likelihood of flash floods in low-lying settlements.
As preparations continue, stakeholders emphasise that effective coordination between federal, state, and local authorities will be critical in reducing loss of lives and property during the peak of the rainy season.
