Building Resilience in the Face of Flood Devastation: Yobe’s response to the 2024 flood disaster, by Goje Mohammed
Yobe State is grappling with one of its most devastating flood disasters in recent history, with widespread destruction across multiple sectors. The 2024 flooding has exposed vulnerabilities in our critical infrastructure and emergency response systems, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated intervention and resource mobilisation to restore normalcy.
The unprecedented flooding has left 441 communities across the state in disarray. So far, 20,181 households, totalling 50,631 individuals, have been affected. Families have seen their homes, farmlands, and public facilities severely damaged, with 30,848 houses, structures, and agricultural plots destroyed.
The disaster has also claimed 34 lives, while 386 individuals have sustained injuries, further underscoring the humanitarian crisis.
The financial implications are staggering. The total estimated cost of damages and recovery efforts is over NGN19 billion, covering the reconstruction of critical infrastructure, public facilities, and support for affected communities.
Several factors have contributed to this catastrophic event. The flooding between April 15th and September 9th, 2024, was driven by heavy rainfall exacerbated by multiple factors including defective infrastructure, community attitudinal issues, increased rainfall as a result of climate change, as well as potential discharges from the Dadinkowa Dam, Hadeja-Jama’are River, River Kamadugu, and the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
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These elements overwhelmed drainage systems and infrastructure, especially in low-lying areas, causing severe disruptions to transportation networks, businesses, and public safety.
Key Lessons Learned
The 2024 flooding has prompted critical reflections on disaster preparedness and response strategies.
Several important lessons have emerged:
Infrastructure Investment: There is an urgent need to invest in flood-resistant infrastructure, such as drainage systems, retention ponds, and flood barriers. Such investments will improve water management, reduce urban flooding, and mitigate the impact of extreme weather events.
Early Warning Systems: Timely and accurate communication is vital for alerting residents and authorities about impending floods. Enhancing early warning systems and intersectoral collaboration on emergency alerts will provide communities with the information they need to protect themselves and their property.
Community Engagement: Building resilience requires active participation from local communities. Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has launched public awareness campaigns that utilise community structures and social media to educate residents on flood preparedness and response.
Adaptive Planning: Disaster response must be flexible and adaptive. Yobe State has developed comprehensive emergency response plans that prioritise rapid mobilisation, coordination between agencies, and efficient resource allocation. This approach ensures that the state is better equipped to address emerging challenges during flood events.
A Path Forward:
Strengthening Resilience: While progress has been made in enhancing flood resilience, ongoing efforts are essential to address evolving risks. By embracing innovation, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration between government, development partners, the private sector, and civil society, Yobe State can build a more resilient and sustainable future.
The 2024 flooding in Yobe State is a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by disasters. By learning from this experience, investing in resilient infrastructure, and fostering community engagement, Yobe State can strengthen its capacity to withstand and recover from future disasters.
These efforts will ensure a safer, more sustainable environment for future generations. The time to act is now—through collective action and sustained commitment, Yobe State will rise above the challenges and build a future that is better prepared for the uncertainties ahead.
Dr Goje Mohammed is the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YSEMA)
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