The Federal Government (FG) has issued a flood alert and ordered evacuations in 11 states. This indicates a significant risk to public safety and property due to anticipated flooding. The specific details about the affected states, the areas under immediate threat, and the resources allocated for evacuation and relief efforts are crucial for understanding the scope and impact of this situation. Public awareness campaigns and accessible information regarding evacuation routes and shelters are vital for ensuring the safety of the affected population.
Authorities also appealed to state governments and emergency agencies to act swiftly to reduce the potential impact.
The directive comes shortly after torrential rains in Zaria, Kaduna State, displaced more than 470 children and destroyed at least 270 houses.
Flooding has continued to devastate parts of Nigeria in recent years, fueled by inadequate drainage systems, rapid urbanisation, and climate change.
As of September 4, at least 231 people had died in flood-related incidents this year, with 114 others still missing and over 600 injured, according to the National Emergency Management Agency.
Data also show that floods in 2024 affected over 5.2 million people across 35 states, leading to more than 1,200 deaths and displacing over a million residents.
