National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued an urgent warning to residents living along the River Niger in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states, urging them to relocate to safer areas amid rising water levels.
In a statement, NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar said the alert followed reports of increasing water levels in the upstream of the river in the Republic of Benin. She confirmed that the agency has activated its flood preparedness and response protocols.
Umar directed NEMA’s regional and zonal offices along the River Niger corridor to intensify public awareness and mobilisation campaigns in vulnerable communities. “Residents in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states, which share borders with Benin Republic, are particularly at risk and are advised to take necessary precautions,” the statement read.
She further instructed NEMA offices to sensitise communities to remain vigilant and to encourage residents in high-risk flood plains to evacuate to safer, higher grounds.
Umar also called on state governments to support their respective State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) in implementing contingency plans aimed at reducing the impact of potential flooding.
“It’s critical that we coordinate our efforts and respond swiftly to protect lives and livelihoods,” she said, adding that the agency is committed to mitigating the effects of this year’s flooding.
She reiterated NEMA’s dedication to a comprehensive national flood response strategy, stressing the urgency of proactive measures in the face of increasing climate risks.
