The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, has directed field offices covering communities along the River Niger to intensify their advocacy and mobilisation efforts. The directive, which was issued on friday in Abuja, follows alerts of rising water levels in the upstream of the river in the Republic of Benin.
According to the agency, residents in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states, which share borders with Benin, are particularly at risk and should take necessary precautions. The agency is urging those in high-risk floodplains to evacuate without delay to avoid loss of life and property.
NEMA offices have been instructed to sensitise communities to remain vigilant and advise residents in high-risk flood plains to evacuate to safer, higher grounds,” she said.
The director-general urged state governments to strengthen their Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) in activating contingency plans and preparedness measures.
Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to coordinated actions aimed at safeguarding lives and livelihoods along the River Niger.
”The agency is working to mitigate the potential impact of this year’s flooding and protect communities at risk,”she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that states most vulnerable to flooding are, Kebbi, Niger and Kwara, owing to their proximity to the Benin Republic and their location along the River Niger.
Residents in high-risk areas are advised to stay up-to-date with the latest information on flood warnings and evacuation instructions.
NAN reports that such states should have a plan in place in case of flooding, including evacuation routes and emergency contact numbers.
NAN also reports that states likely to be affected by flood have been advised to follow instructions from NEMA and local authorities to ensure safety.
