Flood Warning: 21 LGAs in 10 states, FCT affected, says Nigerian govt

The Federal Government has issued a serious warning following the recent heavy rains, revealing that floods have inundated 21 local government areas across 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

This disclosure came during a briefing in Abuja on Thursday, where the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr Joseph Utserv, together with the Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Goronyo, and the Director-General of the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), highlighted the far-reaching impacts of the ongoing rainfall.

“Heavy rains have triggered flash floods and urban flooding, exacerbated by clogged drainage systems,” said Engineer Joseph Utserv. “This has led to the displacement of many residents and significant property damage.”

According to the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) released by NIHSA earlier this year, 148 LGAs across 31 states were identified as high-risk areas for flooding. The ongoing floods have confirmed the accuracy of this prediction, affecting states such as Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Lagos and others.

“In addition to having a direct impact on the community, flooding also poses the risk of exacerbating the cholera outbreak that has already claimed lives and affected thousands of people,” the minister stressed.

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He further stressed the challenges ahead, stating, “Riverine flooding is expected to start this month in states located in the Niger Basin. States like Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Delta and others are advised to prepare for potential flooding.”

The government has urged proactive measures, including clearing clogged drainage systems, relocating vulnerable communities, and increasing flood resilience through infrastructure improvements. Efforts are also underway to closely monitor dam operations and upstream river conditions to reduce further risks.

Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has identified certain LGAs in Anambra State as high risk and called for collaborative efforts to mitigate potential disasters during the rainy season.

As the situation evolves, federal and state authorities continue to mobilize resources and raise awareness to minimize the impact of flooding on lives and livelihoods in affected areas.

Flood Warning: 21 LGAs in 10 states, FCT affected, says Nigerian govt first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.