The minister of Environment, Mallam Lawal on Wednesday warned that the threat of flooding may increase in the country due to forecast trends, the admonition was disclosed in a statement reacting to the recent flood incidences across the country.
Lawal advised Nigerians to avoid travelling to flood-prone areas and avoid crossing heavy run-off flow as well as cut-off highways. The advice also included urging states, local governments, stakeholders, and all citizens to relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains.
Earlier the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu stated that up to 51 per cent of farming areas in Nigeria are liable to flooding in 2024.
However, Lawal noted that the recent flood disaster, particularly that of Borno State, serves as a stark reminder of the need for immediate collective action to address the effects of climate change, which has led to heavier-than-normal rainfall and further environmental degradation.
“As the Minister of Environment, I am committed to keeping you informed to enable us to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
“The 2024 flood season has been particularly severe, with many states across the country experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding.
“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reported that over 1 million people have been affected, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions of Naira destroyed.
“The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding before our eyes,” he said.
The minister stated that in anticipation of the 2024 flooding season, the Federal Ministry of Environment has taken proactive measures to mitigate its impact.
“On March 27, 2024, the Ministry sent letters to all State Governments, including the FCT Administration, urging them to conduct flood awareness campaigns.
“The Federal Ministry of Environment’s National Flood Early Warning Systems Center recently issued a flood alert on September 4, identifying 21 states as high-risk zones for flooding between September 4-8, 2024.
“ In response to this alert, the Ministry promptly notified the affected states and stakeholders, urging them to take necessary precautions. Additionally, residents living in floodplains along the River Niger and River Benue were advised to evacuate immediately due to the imminent risk of flooding caused by rising river levels,” he said.
He noted that the Alau Dam flooding was a ‘heartbreaking tragedy’ adding that the ministry is working closely with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide support and bring succour to affected communities
“We urge all relevant stakeholders responsible for recovery efforts to join us in this endeavour. Additionally, we advise those who may be affected to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety,” he said.
