The Federal Government has sounded a warning to states and local government areas to prepare for imminent flooding as the rainy season reaches its peak.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, issued the alert at a press conference in Abuja, urging precautionary measures to mitigate potential disasters.
According to the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), 148 local government areas across 31 states face significant flood risks. The outlook predicts heightened flood risks from April to November, with the most severe flooding expected between July and September.
Utsev emphasized the need for states and local government areas to intensify flood prevention measures, such as clearing blocked drainage systems, relocating residents from flood-prone areas, and constructing flood barriers. He also warned of potential cholera outbreaks due to increased rainfall.
A presidential committee has been established to address cholera and other waterborne diseases linked to flooding, while a new committee chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima will address broader disaster management issues.
NIHSA’s Director General, Mr.
