By Patrick Idowu
The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), has sounded a serious alarm, warning that no fewer than thirty three states and the Federal Capital Territory face a high risk of devastating floods in the months ahead.
This grim forecast was delivered in Abuja during the public presentation of the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook, where NIHSA painted a stark picture of potential widespread inundation if urgent measures are not taken.
According to the agency, heavy rainfall and poor drainage infrastructure remain key triggers that could unleash severe flooding across urban and rural communities, endangering lives, farmlands and critical infrastructure.
NIHSA identified states along major river basins, including Niger and Benue, as particularly vulnerable, stressing that early action by federal, state and local authorities is crucial to mitigating the impending disaster.
“This outlook is not to cause panic but to prompt action. We urge governments at all levels, emergency responders and citizens to prepare and respond proactively,” NIHSA’s director general stated.
He further called for the clearing of blocked water channels, desilting of drainages and strict enforcement of environmental regulations to reduce flood impacts.
Communities in past flood hotspots have been advised to remain vigilant and adhere to early warning messages to safeguard lives and property.
Experts warn that Nigeria cannot afford to treat these predictions lightly, given the painful memories of last year’s floods that displaced thousands and destroyed billions worth of assets.
With this alert, all eyes are now on the authorities and residents to rise to the challenge and prevent another season of sorrow.
