Flood Situation in Nigeria Worsening, Agency Warns

National Emergency Management Agency Issues Warning

Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is warning that fatalities caused by severe flooding in the country will increase in September and October – the usual peak period for rainfall. The floods have already killed more than 170 people and displaced hundreds of thousands more in Nigeria this year.

Flooding Causes Significant Displacement and Damage

According to the latest tally on the National Emergency Management Agency tracker, some 170 people have died and some 205,000 displaced by flooding in 28 out of Nigeria’s 36 states. Bauchi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, and Jigawa states are the most impacted.

Rising Rivers and Unprecedented Rainfall Cause Flooding

The flooding has been caused by unprecedented rainfall and the rising Niger and Benue rivers. And officials worry more bad weather may be ahead.

NEMA Spokesperson’s Statement

Ezekiel Manzo, NEMA spokesperson, spoke to VOA via phone and warned that the situation is not ending because it is just approaching the peak of the rainy season. He also stated that the River Benue is rising, River Niger is also rising, and once the water level is high there, it will ultimately flow into the country, so they are expecting a large volume of water coming from Niger.

Flooding Compounds Food Security Crisis

The floods have also washed away thousands of hectares of farmlands, compounding an already dire food security situation caused by widespread insecurity.

Awareness Campaign and Evacuation Efforts

Manzo stated that authorities have been advising and helping to evacuate locals in flood-prone plains, as well as providing relief for hundreds of thousands already impacted. He emphasized that authorities are conducting assessments, increasing awareness to sensitize people to move immediately from flood plains to avoid being washed away by waters, and that the situation is still that of a threat and people need to be aware and move out of the danger zone.

Nigerian Government Estimates Widespread Flooding

The Nigerian government estimates 31 states will experience severe flooding this year, with Bauchi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, and Jigawa states being the most impacted. Jigawa authorities have been building embankments to reduce the impact of the flooding, while State Governor Umar Namadi told Al-Jazeera that the disaster is diverting crucial government funds.

Jigawa State Governor’s Statement

Namadi stated that a lot of attention is being diverted to the flood area because you need to save the situation, and because of that, of course, a lot of government revenue will be lost, not only that, a lot of extra expenditure will have to be incurred.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the flood situation in Nigeria is severe and is expected to worsen, with NEMA warning that fatalities will increase in September and October. The flooding has caused significant displacement and damage, washed away thousands of hectares of farmland, and compounded the food security crisis. While authorities are working to evacuate affected communities and provide relief, it is crucial that residents take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

FAQs

Q: How many people have died due to flooding in Nigeria?

A: According to the latest tally, over 170 people have died due to flooding in Nigeria this year.

Q: How many states are expected to experience severe flooding this year?

A: The Nigerian government estimates 31 states will experience severe flooding this year.

Q: What is causing the flooding?

A: The flooding has been caused by unprecedented rainfall and the rising Niger and Benue rivers.

Q: Will the farmers be compensated for their losses?

A: Yes, Nigerian authorities plan to compensate the farmers for their losses due to the flooding.

Q: What is the current state of food security in Nigeria?

A: The food security situation in Nigeria is already dire, and the flooding has further compounded it, with the country being second on the list of nations with the highest number of hungry people, according to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crises.