The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has reacted to the various instances of flooding across the country, including Tuesday’s flooding in Maiduguri, stating that “the threat of flooding may increase due to forecast trends.”
He said the recent floods are “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.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the minister noted that “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 one 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.
“As it is the usual practice, in anticipation of the 2024 flooding season, the Federal Ministry of Environment took 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.
These campaigns aimed to: ensure the clearing of drainage and manhole systems; relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains and activate emergency preparedness measures by NEMA, SEMA, and other relevant agencies.
“The Federal Ministry of Environment’s National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre recently issued a flood alert on September 4, identifying 21 states as high-risk zones for flooding between September 4 and 8.
“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.”
The minister described the Alau Dam flooding as “a heartbreaking tragedy.”
He said, “The unfortunate overflow of the dam has severely affected several communities, causing displacement and property damage. We are working closely with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide support and bring succor 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.”
The minister went on to issue a public advisory.
“As the threat of flooding may increase due to forecast trends, we urge the states, local governments, stakeholders, and all citizens to relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains; avoid travelling to flood-prone areas; follow evacuation orders; and desilt drainage systems.”
He advised motorists and pedestrians to avoid crossing heavy run-off flow as well as cut-off highways and stay informed through official channels and adhere to flood forecasts.
“We are working closely with state governments, NEMA, and international development partners to minimise the impact of flooding as well as support affected communities.”
The minister commiserated with victims, saying: “Our hearts goes out to the families of the fatalities recorded. Together, we can reduce the effects of flooding and ensure a safer Nigeria. We urge everyone to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines during this period.”
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