The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has called for immediate collective action to address the severe flooding that has affected millions across Nigeria, underscoring the urgent need to tackle the impacts of climate change.
In a statement issued today, September 11, 2024 and made available to journalists, the minister detailed the devastating effects of the 2024 flood season and outlined the government’s response and public safety measures.
He noted that the 2024 flood season has been particularly severe, with many states across the country experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding, adding that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reported that over one million people have been affected, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions of Naira destroyed, thereby birthing a worrisome humanitarian crisis.
Lawal highlighted the government’s response by observing that the Federal Ministry of Environment took proactive measures to mitigate its impact by sending letters to all State Governments, including the FCT Administration, urging them to conduct flood awareness campaigns in March.
He highlighted the objectives of the campaigns to include ensuring the clearing of drainage and manhole systems, relocating vulnerable populations from floodplains, and activation of emergency preparedness measures by NEMA, SEMA, and other relevant agencies.
As a follow-up measure, he noted that the Federal Ministry of Environment’s National Flood Early Warning Systems Center recently issued a flood alert on September 4, identifying 21 states as high-risk zones for flooding between September 4-8, 2024. In response to this alert, the Ministry promptly notified the affected states and stakeholders, urging them to take necessary precautions. Additionally, residents living in floodplains along the River Niger and River Benue were advised to evacuate immediately due to the imminent risk of flooding caused by rising river levels.
On the disastrous overflood in Borno state two days ago, Lawal commiserated with affected families, noting that the Alau Dam flooding is a heartbreaking tragedy as the unfortunate overflow of the dam has severely affected several communities, causing displacement and property damage. He said the Environment Ministry was working closely with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide support and bring succor to affected communities. He however urged all relevant stakeholders responsible for recovery efforts to join us in this endeavour, while advising those who may be affected to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Lawal stated that the ministry is coordinating with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide relief and support to those affected.
With the threat of flooding expected to increase, the minister urged states, local governments, and citizens to take urgent action, including relocating vulnerable populations from floodplains.
He also urged citizens to avoid traveling to flood-prone areas, to clear drainage systems, and to adhere to official flood warnings.
“Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid crossing heavy runoff and cut-off highways,” he added.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mitigating flood disasters and urged all citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines.
The Federal Government is working closely with state governments, NEMA, and international partners to minimize the impact of flooding and support affected communities.
The minister expressed his condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the floods and emphasized the importance of collective action to reduce the impact of future disasters.
