Evacuate from flood-prone areas, NEMA urges Benue, Kogi, Anambra residents

Flooding on the long bridge, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, at Warewa, Ogun State... on Thursday. Photo: Stanley Ogidi

The National Emergency Management Agency has advised states in the central and southern regions of the country to prepare for potential floods that may soon affect downstream communities.

It also urged the states to clear blocked drainage systems, construct temporary flood barriers, and evacuate flood plains to safer higher ground.

NEMA issued the advice in a press statement signed by its Head of Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, on Thursday.

The flood alert read: “Following recent floods that impacted many communities across several states and rising water levels in the River Benue and River Niger, NEMA advises states in the central and southern regions to prepare for potential floods that may soon affect downstream communities.

“This advice is essential to prompt State and Local Government Authorities, as well as communities, to take necessary actions to mitigate the risk of flooding and prevent the losses already seen in affected areas, including the loss of lives, displacement of communities, and significant damage to property and infrastructure.

“The states highly likely to experience flooding in the coming weeks are Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa.”

The agency added, “Some recommended actions include the immediate clearing of blocked drainage systems, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating from flood plains to safer higher ground.”

NEMA also advised communities to stay informed through weather updates and flood warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Hydrological Services Agency.

“Residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded areas, relocate from flood-prone zones, and cooperate with local emergency services.”

NEMA confirmed that it is working closely with state emergency management agencies and other stakeholders via the National Emergency Operations Centre, located at the agency’s headquarters, to ensure necessary support, including rescue and relief operations, is available to affected communities.

The agency’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, emphasised the importance of early action and community vigilance.

She stated, “We urge all residents, especially in vulnerable areas, to heed our warnings and take immediate preventive measures to safeguard lives and property. Preparedness is key to reducing the impact of flooding.”