Nigeria’s Flood Crisis Deepens as NEMA Deploys Teams to 15 States, Urges Vigilance and Relocation

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched an extensive campaign to tackle the escalating flood disaster by deploying officials to 15 states deemed most vulnerable. Manzo Ezekiel, NEMA’s Press Unit Head, revealed that these states include Kogi, Imo, Enugu, Adamawa, Taraba, Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, and the Federal Capital Territory, among others.

The recent catastrophic flooding in Mokwa, Niger State—a commercial hub—has claimed over 200 lives and left hundreds missing. Ezekiel pointed out that many victims had built homes in gullies prone to flooding, which contributed to the high casualty rate. “The houses were built in a big gully,” he said, describing the unprecedented scale of the disaster.

Niger State, home to three major dams vital to Nigeria’s power supply, has faced repeated flooding this year, including a severe incident in April that destroyed thousands of farms. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had forecast heavy storms for Abuja and 14 states, including Niger, underscoring the urgency of preparedness.

Ezekiel stressed that even areas not officially designated as high risk must remain alert. “Everybody must be on alert. Every community needs to take a necessary step to forestall flooding in its area,” he advised. NEMA has prioritized direct community engagement, conducting awareness programs, training on first aid, and evacuation drills to enhance readiness.

The Federal Government has intensified its response, with NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar visiting the flood site within 24 hours to oversee relief operations. Ezekiel highlighted the agency’s collaboration with state emergency services, health ministries, and security agencies to coordinate efforts.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Joseph Utsev dispelled rumors that dam water releases caused the flooding, attributing the disaster instead to heavy rainfall and blocked waterways due to unregulated construction. He reiterated the need for infrastructure improvements and adherence to flood warnings.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency confirmed the death toll at 160, with recent recoveries including two children buried under debris. Verification was conducted with assistance from international and local partners.

The League of Northern Democrats has called for government compensation and resettlement programs, urging the construction of affordable housing for displaced victims. They also advocated for investments in flood control and public education to prevent future tragedies.

In Ekiti State, NEMA’s Deputy Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, Dr. Evans Ugoh, warned residents against dumping refuse in waterways, a practice that worsens flooding. The Ogoga of Ikere Kingdom, Oba Adejumi Adu-Alagbado, pledged support for enforcement efforts to curb illegal dumping.

With Nigeria’s rainy season underway and flood risks high, NEMA’s comprehensive strategy emphasizes community awareness, early warning, and multi-agency cooperation to mitigate the devastating impact of floods nationwide.