Full List: 19 Nigerian states, 56 communities at risk of heavy rainfall, flood
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has forecasted heavy rainfall and the possibility of flooding in 19 states and 56 communities across the country.
Ibrahim Farinloye, the Lagos Territorial Coordinator for NEMA, revealed that these areas are at high risk and urged residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Mr Farinloye disclosed the list of states and communities that are most likely to be affected by the heavy rainfall.
In Delta State, Aboh and Ekiti State’s Ado Ekiti topped the list, followed by Akure, Idanre, Ifon, Iju Itaogbolu, Ogbese, Owo, Owena, and Ondo. The statement also highlighted several areas in Lagos, such as Apapa, Badagry, Eti Osa, Ikeja, Ikorodu, Ikoyi, Lagos Island, Ojo Lagos, and Surulere, where residents need to exercise caution.
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Furthermore, NEMA identified Atani in Anambra State; Ifo, Ota, and Sagamu in Ogun State; Lafia and Wamba in Nasarawa State; and Ikom and Ogoja in Cross River State as areas prone to flooding.
In Bauchi State, Jamaare, Misau, Azare, Itas, Kafin Madaki, Kari, Kirfi, Tafawa Balewa, and Katagum are particularly at risk. Hadejia and Miga in Jigawa State, Ilesa and Oshogbo in Osun State, and Kosubosu in Kwara State have also been identified as potential flood zones.
According to NEMA’s statement, other areas that should be on high alert include Anka, Bungudu, and Gusau in Zamfara State; Goronyo in Sokoto State; Numan and Shelleng in Adamawa State; Serti in Taraba State; Ito, Katsina-Alan, and Vande-Ikya in Benue State; Oguta and Orlu in Imo State; as well as Ugba in Abia State.
The NEMA coordinator emphasized the importance of preparedness and urged residents in these areas to be proactive in mitigating the risks associated with heavy rainfall.
He advised them to clear drainages, avoid building structures on floodplains, and relocate to higher grounds if necessary. NEMA has also assured the public that it is ready to respond swiftly to any emergency situations that may arise as a result of the predicted heavy rainfall and potential flooding.