By Onilede Titi Faith
The Federal Government has issued a fresh flood alert for July, warning that 20 states remain at high risk despite a ₦620 billion intervention fund meant to tackle climate-related disasters.
The alert, issued by NEMA and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), follows early rains that displaced thousands in June.
High-risk states include Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, Benue, Kogi, Niger, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Jigawa.
Zamfara alone has recorded over 58,000 displaced persons, sparking concerns about the readiness of other flood-prone states.
NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, urged state governments to prioritize sensitization and early evacuation. “Timely action can save lives,” she said.
Despite the ₦620bn allocation, much of the fund is yet to reach critical flood-control projects, prompting frustration from affected residents and civil society groups who blame poor accountability and delayed response.
Experts warn that worsening floods could impact food security, as farmlands are increasingly destroyed.
With heavier rains expected through August, authorities are urging citizens to remain alert and avoid high-risk areas.
