Nigerian Government Warns 11 States Of Possible Flooding

The Nigerian government has warned 11 states across the country regarding the possibility of flooding incidents in the next three days.

National Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) Central Hub, Federal Ministry of Environment announced on Wednesday morning that these incidents can take place between Sept. 13 to Sept. 17.

In the statement, the FEWS mentioned that "the following locations and their environs are likely to witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding within the period of prediction: 13th - 17th September 2023," as per SaharaReporters.

Sumaila and Kunchi in Kano State are expected to witness heavy rainfall leading to flooding alongside Bindawa, Jibia, Kaita, and Katsina in Katsina State. Argungu in Kebbi State; Kontagora, Mashegu, New Bussa in Niger State; Kosubosu, Zamfara State: Kaura Namoda, Shinkafi in Kwara State and Bajoga, Darazo, Kirfi, Azare, Jama 'are., Itas, Misau in Bauchi State.

Furthermore, Beli, Donga, Lau, Serti, Mutum-Biyu, Yorro in Taraba State; Briyel, Biu, Dikwa, Kukawa, Bama in Borno State; Ganye, Mubi, Demsa, Jimeta, Mayo Belwa, Numan, Shelleng, Song in Adamawa State; Dapchi, Gashua, Geidam, Kanamma, Machina, Potiskum in Yobe State; Dutse, Gumel, Gwaram, Miga in Jigawa State; and Nafada in Gombe State may also witness heavy rainfall.

The department further shared that "due to the rise in the water level of River Benue and River Niger, communities along River Benue and River Niger up to Bayelsa state should kindly take precautionary measures."

Previously, the Nigerian government warned last month that all the frontline states may experience flooding as the Lagdo Dam had been opened in Cameroon, which bordered Nigeria.

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu assured that the government is implementing various policies and rescue missions ahead of potential flooding.

Minister Edu admitted at that time, saying that floods have been a "major issue in Nigeria and has been causing loss of lives and property."

Flooding is a major issue that causes extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, agricultural lands, and communities in Nigeria.

Heavy rainfall is the most prominent reason for floods, which is exacerbated by Nigeria's poor drainage system. Moreover, poor waste management also leads to the drainage system's blockage, allowing water to accumulate.

Last year, more than 2.4 million people were displaced due to flooding and over 650 people died in different parts of Nigeria, as per the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

NEMA's Director General, Mustapha Ahmed said earlier this year that more than 3,000 people have suffered injuries due to flooding incidents.