The Federal Government Wednesday ordered the relocation of vulnerable populations from floodplains.
A public advisory by the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal urged those traveling to avoid the flood prone areas.
The advisory read: “As the threat of flooding may increase due to forecast trends, we urge the States, Local Governments, Stakeholders, and all citizens to relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains.
“Avoid traveling to flood-prone areas; Follow evacuation orders; Desilt drainage systems; Motorists and pedestrians are cautioned to avoid crossing heavy run-off flow as well as cut-off highways; Stay informed through official channels and adhere to flood forecasts/alerts: All incidences of flooding should be adequately reported.”
The Minister said his ministry is working closely with State Governments, NEMA, and International Development Partners to minimize the impact of flooding as well as support affected communities.
He said: “Our commitment to mitigating flood disasters remains unwavering.
“Our hearts goes out to the families of the fatalities recorded. Together, we can reduce the effects of flooding and ensure a safer Nigeria. We urge everyone to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines during this period.”
While giving update on flooding in Nigeria, Lawal said: “The 2024 flood season has been particularly severe, with many states across the country experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reported that over 1 million people have been affected, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions of Naira destroyed. The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding before our eyes.
The Minister on what has been the federal government’s response, said: “As it is the usual practice, in anticipation of the 2024 flooding season, the Federal Ministry of Environment took proactive measures to mitigate its impact. On March 27, 2024, the Ministry sent letters to all State Governments, including the FCT Administration, urging them to conduct flood awareness campaigns.”
He explained that the campaigns were aimed at ensuring the clearing of drainage and manhole systems, relocation of vulnerable populations from floodplains
and activation of emergency preparedness measures by NEMA, SEMA, and other relevant agencies.
He recalled that the Federal Ministry of Environment’s National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre recently issued a flood alert on September 4, identifying 21 states as high-risk zones for flooding between September 4-8, 2024, noting that in response to this alert, the Ministry promptly notified the affected states and stakeholders, urging them to take necessary precautions.
He said: “Additionally, residents living in floodplains along the River Niger and River Benue were advised to evacuate immediately due to the imminent risk of flooding caused by rising river levels.”
On the Alau Dam Flooding in Borno State, the Minister said it is a heartbreaking tragedy, stating that: “The unfortunate overflow of the dam has severely affected several communities, causing displacement and property damage. We are working closely with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide support and bring succour to affected communities. We urge all relevant stakeholders responsible for recovery efforts to join us in this endeavour. Additionally, we advise those who may be affected to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.”
