NEMA Issues Flood Warning for 15 States, Urges Evacuations

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has alerted residents of Kogi, Anambra, Benue, and 13 other states about a high risk of flooding, following a forecast from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). In a statement signed by Manzo Ezekiel, the Head of the Press Unit, NEMA's Director General, Mrs Zubaida Umar, activated the agency’s Zonal Directorates and Operations Offices to prepare for potential flooding.

She directed NEMA offices in the affected states to implement preparedness mechanisms, coordinate with relevant authorities, and monitor vulnerable locations. Umar advised residents in flood-prone areas to take the warning seriously and evacuate to higher ground, particularly focusing on vulnerable individuals such as children and pregnant women.

She urged local governments to prepare emergency measures and stock essential supplies for rapid response. The importance of early action in mitigating flooding impacts on lives and infrastructure was stressed, along with caution against crossing flooded areas.