The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has issued a warning to residents of Kano State regarding the likelihood of flooding in several local government areas (LGAs) during the upcoming rainy season. Dr. Nuradeen Abdullahi, the NIMET Kano/Jigawa Territorial Coordinator, conveyed this cautionary message during a Disaster Risk Management Stakeholders Coordination Meeting on Seasonal Climate Prediction and Annual Flood Outlook in Kano.
Abdullahi identified 14 out of the 44 LGAs in Kano State as being particularly susceptible to flooding. These include Rimin Gado, Tofa, Kabo, Madobi, Garum Malam, Bebeji, Rano, Dawakin Kudu, Warawa, Wudil, Sumaila, Ajingi, Kura, and Dala. Additionally, he noted that five other LGAs – Karaye, Takai, Bunkure, Dawakin Tofa, and Makoda – were moderately prone to high-risk flooding. However, he reassured that the remaining 25 LGAs were at low risk of flooding.
The purpose of the meeting was to devise strategies to mitigate the potential impact of flooding across the state. Abdullahi emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to address the challenges posed by climate change and environmental disasters.
Abdullahi highlighted the vulnerability of women and children during the rainy season and urged residents in flood-prone areas to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their properties.
Hajiya Amina Abdullahi, the Commissioner for Humanitarian and Poverty Eradication in the state, disclosed that the government had established a high-powered committee, headed by the deputy governor, to oversee the clearance of drainages in all 44 LGAs to minimize the risk of flooding. She emphasized the significance of preparedness and response planning in mitigating the impact of disasters within communities.
