ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government has issued a flood warning for 94 towns across Nigeria, advising residents to prepare for potential flooding from July 16 to July 20, 2024.
The alert was announced by Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Environment, during a press briefing on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
The identified locations are expected to experience heavy rainfall, which may result in significant flooding within the prediction period.
Dr Salako emphasized the importance of preparedness and mitigation measures to minimize the impact of the anticipated floods.
The states and towns at risk include:
- Adamawa State: Gbajili, Ganye
- Abia State: Eziama, Arochukwu
- Anambra State: Onitsha
- Akwa Ibom: Uyo, Upenekang, Oron, Edor, Eket, Obianga, Etinan
- Bauchi State: Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi
- Bayelsa State: Letugbene
- Borno State: Maiduguri
- Cross River State: Ikom, Calabar, Itigidi, Akpap
- Nasarawa State: Udeni, Tunga
- Federal Capital Territory: Abaji, Bwari
- Jigawa State: Miga, Ringim, Dutse, Hadejia
- Kano State: Gezawa, Gwarzo, Kano, Karaye, Wudil, Sumaila
- Kebbi State: Gwandu, Jega, Kangiwa, Gauri-Banza, Ribah, Sakaba, Saminaka, Kamba, Birnin Kebbi, Bunza, Argungu, Bagudo
- Katsina State: Bindawa, Jibia, Kaita, Katsina, Daura, Funtua
- Kwara State: Kosubosu
- Niger State: Ibi, Bida, Kontagora, Mashegu, Minna, New Bussa, Katcha, Rijau, Wushishi
- Plateau State: Jos, Mangu
- Rivers State: Port-Harcourt, Onne, Okrika, Bori
- Sokoto State: Makira, Goronyo, Isa, Silame, Sokoto, Wamako
- Taraba State: Gembu, Beli, Garkowa, Gasol, Serti, Donga, Duchi, Gwarzo, Gun gun Bodel
- Yobe State: Gashua, Gasma, Damaturu, Geidam, Kanama
- Zamfara State: Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Shinkafi, Bukkuyum, Majara, Gummi
D. Salako urged local stakeholders to implement necessary precautions to mitigate potential damage.
“Stakeholders in the affected areas must take proactive measures to reduce the impact of the flooding,” the minister said.
Regarding concerns about the potential release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, which has historically exacerbated flooding in Nigeria, Dr Salako clarified the role of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
“If there’s going to be any issue around the Lagdo Dam, they will inform the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation. As of now, there has been no information received from Cameroon,” he noted.
The Ministry of Environment’s flood warning follows a pattern of annual advisories during Nigeria’s rainy season, aiming to protect lives and property.
The government continues to monitor weather patterns closely and will provide updates as necessary.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to safety guidelines to minimize the risks associated with flooding.
