April 2024, Abuja – The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has issued a stark warning that 148 local government areas across 31 states in Nigeria are at high risk of severe flooding this year. This alarming revelation was made during the official unveiling of the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) in Abuja.
Prof. Utsev listed the states prone to this threat, including major areas like Lagos, Ogun, Adamawa, and Delta, among others. The comprehensive list reflects a broad geographical spread, underscoring the widespread nature of the risk.
Historical Context and Recent Devastations
Nigeria’s struggle with severe flooding is not new, but recent years have seen an escalation in frequency and intensity. The 2022 floods were highlighted by Prof. Utsev as particularly catastrophic, described as the worst in the country’s history regarding impact magnitude. The economic toll of these floods was immense, with the World Bank estimating the total damage at approximately $6.68 billion. This figure includes damage to residential and non-residential buildings, infrastructure, productive sectors, and farmlands.
Government’s Response and Initiatives
In response to these recurring disasters, President Bola Tinubu has initiated the National Economic Council Ad-hoc Committee on Flood Mitigation, Adaptation, Preparedness, and Response. This committee is tasked with developing strategies to not only respond to flood incidents but also to implement preventive measures to mitigate future risks.
The minister emphasized the critical need for proactive measures to reduce the potential impacts of flooding in the affected areas. These measures include improving urban planning to manage stormwater effectively, enhancing early warning systems, and strengthening the resilience of infrastructure.
Urgent Call for Community and National Preparedness
With the 2024 flood outlook now public, there is an urgent call for communities and government authorities at all levels to prepare. This involves clear evacuation plans, community training in emergency response, and public awareness campaigns to ensure that residents are informed about the risks and prepared to act in case of emergencies.
Economic and Social Implications
The anticipated floods have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s economy and the well-being of millions of its citizens. Agriculture, a critical sector for the country’s food security and economic stability, is especially vulnerable. There is also the risk of significant disruptions to transportation networks and energy supplies, further complicating recovery efforts post-disaster.
Conclusion
As Nigeria braces for another challenging rainy season, the stakes are high for effective implementation of the preparedness strategies outlined by the government. The cooperation between federal, state, and local governments, alongside community engagement, will be pivotal in mitigating the effects of potential flooding.
In conclusion, while the government spearheads efforts to combat this recurring natural disaster, the involvement and preparedness of local communities will be equally crucial in managing the impacts and safeguarding lives and property.
