NEMA directs high-risk floodplain residents to evacuate without delay

Following alerts of rising water levels upstream of the river in the Republic of Benin, the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, has directed all field offices covering communities along the River Niger to step up advocacy and mobilisation efforts.

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, she specifically noted that residents in Kebbi, Niger and Kwara states, which share borders with Benin Republic, are particularly at risk and have been advised to take necessary precautions.

The statement added that NEMA offices have been instructed to sensitise communities to remain vigilant and to advise residents in high-risk flood plains to evacuate to safer, higher ground.

The Director-General urged state governments to strengthen their Emergency Management Agencies, SEMAs and Local Emergency Management Committees, in activating contingency plans and preparedness measures, while reaffirming NEMA’s commitment to coordinated actions aimed at safeguarding lives and livelihoods along the River Niger.

It further stated that the agency is working to mitigate the potential impact of this year’s flooding and to protect at-risk communities.

The states most vulnerable to flooding are Kebbi, Niger and Kwara, owing to their proximity to Benin Republic and their location along the River Niger.

Residents in high-risk areas are advised to keep abreast of the latest information on flood warnings and evacuation instructions.

NEMA directs high-risk floodplain residents to evacuate without delay