The Kogi State government has warned that over 250,000 residents in eight communities are at risk of displacement due to potential flooding during this year’s wet season.
This information was shared during a stakeholders’ meeting on flood management, led by the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engineer Joseph Oluwasegun.
The meeting was organised in response to rising water levels in the River Niger and Benue, and to address the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NIMET) flood predictions for 2024.
As part of the state’s preparedness measures, 42 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps have been set up across eight Local Government Areas, and nine high-risk flood zones have been identified.
The stakeholders, including experts in flood management, discussed mitigation strategies, emergency response plans, and evacuation procedures. The goal is to create a comprehensive approach to minimise the impact of potential flooding.
Engineer Oluwasegun stressed the importance of a coordinated response from all stakeholders and called for increased public awareness to ensure timely relocation of communities in flood-prone areas. Additionally, an Emergency Operation Centre will be established to enhance coordination and response efforts.
Other stakeholders present included officials from various ministries, including agriculture, water resources, health, and humanitarian services.