The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued an urgent warning to residents living along the River Niger in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states to move to safer areas.
In a statement, Zubaida Umar, NEMA director-general, said the directive follows alerts of rising water levels in the upstream of the river in the Republic of Benin.
She said the agency has activated its flood preparedness and response protocols.
She also directed NEMA’s regional and zonal offices along the River Niger corridor to intensify public awareness efforts and mobilisation campaigns in at-risk communities.
“Residents in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states, which share borders with Benin Republic, are particularly at risk and are advised to take necessary precautions,” the statement reads.
”NEMA offices have been instructed to sensitise communities to remain vigilant and advise residents in high-risk flood plains to evacuate to safer, higher grounds.”
Umar also called on state governments in the affected areas to support their respective State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs).
She said it is important to implement contingency plans to lessen the impact of potential flooding.
“It’s critical that we coordinate our efforts and respond swiftly to protect lives and livelihoods,” she said.
“The agency is working to mitigate the potential impact of this year’s flooding and protect communities at risk.”
She reiterated NEMA’s commitment to a comprehensive national flood response strategy in light of growing climate risks.
