In a concerning update, the Federal Government sounds the alarm over a deepening flood crisis across Nigeria, with devastating impacts witnessed in 20 states and 46 Local Government Areas (LGAs). As the situation worsens, casualties mount, compelling urgent action and comprehensive coordination
Nationwide Flood Crisis Intensifies
As floodwaters continue to surge, 20 states and 46 LGAs bear the brunt of the deluge, amplifying the urgency for intervention. Tragically, lives have been lost amidst the surging waters, casting a somber hue over the situation. This dire scenario was unveiled at the National Emergency Coordination Forum, a critical gathering orchestrated by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Abuja.
Projections vs. Reality: Flood’s Reach and Impact
Clement Nze, the Director-General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), offered insights into the unfolding catastrophe. He referred back to NIHSA’s 2023 Annual Flood Outlook, unveiled in February, which painted a stark picture of the nation’s flood vulnerability. The outlook delineated 178 LGAs as high flood risk areas across 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory, while 224 LGAs were pegged at moderate risk and 372 LGAs at low risk. Unfortunately, the ground reality has overtaken these predictions, with 20 states grappling with flooding’s merciless fury.
Regions Ravaged and Lives Disrupted
Communities from diverse states have been ensnared by the deluge’s impact, with many witnessing houses submerged and tragic casualties. The beleaguered regions span Anambra, Adamawa, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Benue, Borno, Delta, Ekiti, Imo, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Oyo, Niger, Rivers, Taraba, and the Federal Capital Territory. Notably, the FCT faces its own inundation, with numerous neighborhoods including Lugbe and Trademoore Estate grappling with flooding. The toll has been grim, with lives lost and homes swallowed by the unforgiving waters.
