The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued a warning that Bayelsa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers States are at high risk of flooding this year.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the agency has attributed this to the increase in sea level and tidal surge, which could have a negative impact on agriculture, human settlements, and transportation in these states.
NEMA has called for immediate action to mitigate the impact of the impending flood, stressing that it could surpass last year’s flooding.
According to NEMA, last year’s floods resulted in 665 deaths and left 3,181 people injured nationwide. A staggering 4,476,867 individuals were affected, with 2,437,411 displaced and about 944,989 farmlands damaged. The floods also caused partial or total destruction to 355,986 houses.
Speaking during the presentation, the agency’s spokesperson, Mustapha Ahmed, stated that the report is intended to assist responsible organizations to undertake preparedness and mitigation actions to protect lives, livelihoods, properties, and the environment against hydrometeorological hazards in Nigeria during the 2023 rainy season and beyond.
He added that letters have already been sent to the 36 State governments and the Federal Capital Territory administration to alert them of the impending flood.
The agency has urged residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions and cooperate with relevant authorities to prevent loss of life and property.
He said: “This year’s forecast has indicated that there is a high risk of coastal flooding due to expected rise in sea level and tidal surge that may negatively impact agriculture, human settlements, and transportation in Bayelsa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers States.
“Flash and urban floods are also forecasted over many cities and towns due to poor drainage systems and the lack of compliance with town planning and environmental regulations.
“The forecasts have provided many insights into what to expect ahead of this rainy season. The reality is that this year may witness floods similar to what occurred last year if not more.”
On steps taken to mitigate the impact of the flood, the agency said: “Since the release of the forecasts, NEMA has continued to engage relevant stakeholders to explore ways to mitigate against the risk of the predicted floods and other related hazards throughout the 2023 rainy season.
“In NEMA, we believe that early warning must be matched with early action. Therefore, we have written letters and attached this document for dispatch to all the 36 State Governments and the FCT Administration with specific mention of LGAs at risk and actions that are expected to be taken by responsible authorities.
“We have also produced flood risk maps of areas at risk and uploaded them on our official website and social media platforms for greater access by the public.
“NEMA has also commenced public sensitization through the placement of flood early warning jingles, special discussions, and advocacy across the states.
“It is important to emphasize that it is our desire that early warning alerts are matched with appropriate early actions, especially at the community level.”
The NEMA chief advised state governments to form Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) in their respective districts.
He also urged the people to have a more positive attitude toward disaster risk reduction and to take all advisories issued by competent agencies seriously.
