Abuja, Nigeria – The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that severe flooding has impacted 27 states across Nigeria, affecting over 227,000 people and causing extensive damage. The recent floods have led to the destruction of 32,837 homes and the damage of 16,488 hectares of farmland.
NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, outlined these figures in a statement released on Thursday by the agency’s spokesperson, Ezekiel Manzo. The data highlights the extensive reach of the floods, which have displaced thousands and severely impacted agricultural production.
In her statement, Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to addressing the crisis through public awareness and disaster management initiatives. “NEMA shall continue with public sensitization as well as grassroots awareness through advocacies and workshops on solid waste management to raise public consciousness on the clearance of blocked drainages and waterways,” Umar said.
The agency has set up an Emergency Operations Centre to monitor the flood situation and coordinate response efforts. Despite the damage, Umar offered reassurance to farmers about the short-term nature of the dry spell, referencing forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
Umar also urged communities in flood-prone areas, especially those living near waterways, to relocate to higher ground in preparation for the peak of the rainy season. She emphasized the need for State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and local leaders to be prepared for rapid response to flood incidents.
“The timely response by NEMA to the flood incidents is in furtherance to the early preparations made by the agency in the deployment of search and rescue teams and the placement of all NEMA zonal and operation offices on alert,” the statement added.
NEMA is actively coordinating with SEMAs and has begun deploying relief items to assist those affected by the floods. This effort complements state government initiatives and aims to provide critical support to impacted communities.
Flooding in Nigeria remains a persistent issue, exacerbated by seasonal rains, inadequate drainage infrastructure, and deforestation. Urbanization and poor waste management contribute to blocked drainages, worsening the flood effects. Climate change has further intensified these challenges, increasing the frequency and severity of flood events.
Ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate flooding include infrastructure improvements, early warning systems, and public awareness campaigns. NEMA’s proactive response underscores the agency’s dedication to managing the current crisis and preparing for future flood events.