Officials in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states are enhancing their readiness to address flooding, in light of alerts regarding heavy rainfall and potential disasters in the North-West.
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In Sokoto, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has announced its collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), security forces, the Red Cross, and other organizations to improve disaster response efforts. They have accumulated relief supplies, such as food and construction materials.
Mustapha Umar, the director of relief and rehabilitation at SEMA, reported that at least 1,400 households in the Kware Local Government Area have already been impacted by flooding.
In Zamfara, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Musa Kainuwa, mentioned that efforts are underway to clear waterways to mitigate flood risks. He cautioned residents against littering in drainage systems and advised communities near rivers to relocate to safer locations.
The Zamfara Emergency Management Agency (ZEMA) stated that awareness campaigns are currently being conducted in communities at high risk, recalling that last year’s floods resulted in the destruction of over 4,000 homes in Gummi and Talata Mafara LGAs.
In Kebbi, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs Muhammad Hamidu-Jarkuka indicated that proactive strategies, including community education and logistical support, have been established, with budget allocations made to aid victims.
NEMA’s Sokoto field office has also verified that it has carried out a flood response simulation exercise across the three states to enhance coordination.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had previously identified Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Niger, and Kwara as states at risk of significant flooding in 2025.