The Nigerian government has implemented its national response plan in anticipation of another round of annual flooding attributed to climate change. Authorities informed The Associated Press on Thursday that several states, considered hotspots, have been placed on high alert.
Following last year’s devastating floods that resulted in over 600 casualties, Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency has taken proactive steps to prepare for another potentially perilous deluge. The agency has requested air support from the country’s air force and activated its offices nationwide to ensure swift response, stated spokesman Manzo Ezekiel.
Ezekiel expressed concerns, stating, “The outlook for flooding remains bleak, and we are exerting our utmost efforts to raise awareness and mobilise various agencies for adequate preparation.”
The West African nation encounters lethal flooding every year, often due to disregard for environmental guidelines and insufficient infrastructure. However, last year’s floods were exacerbated by abnormal rainfall patterns and the release of excess water from a neighbouring dam in Cameroon, resulting in a staggering loss of life and the destruction of more than 340,000 hectares (about 840,158 acres) of land across 33 of Nigeria’s 36 states and the capital city.
Experts predict that climate change, coupled with human activities like construction in waterways, will exacerbate extreme weather conditions and contribute to flooding in multiple states. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency stated that although less rainfall is expected compared to last year, the impact of climate change is undeniable.
Ibrahim Wasiu, head of the meteorological agency’s forecasting unit, highlighted the influence of climate change, saying, “We have been witnessing extreme weather events such as abnormal rainfall and excessive heat as a result of climate change. It plays a significant role.”
As per a recent alert issued by the Federal Ministry of Environment on Wednesday, up to 14 states are on high alert for potential floods in the coming days. The ministry urged these states to take precautionary measures to safeguard lives and prevent casualties.
Several states have already experienced flooding this year, including the capital city of Abuja, where incessant downpours led to the destruction of numerous houses and the blocking of major roads. Authorities have marked hundreds of houses for demolition in response to this crisis.
“Our primary focus is ensuring the safety of the people,” stated Ezekiel from the disaster management agency. “We are committed to minimising the impact of floods on individuals as much as possible.”