Agency As the rainy season peaks, the Federal Government has warned states and local government areas to brace up for increased river flooding. The warning was given by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday. He directed that precautionary measures be taken to avert possible disasters from such natural occurrences.
The minister said states had been alerted following recent reports highlighted in the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook unveiled by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency. He revealed that state governors had been provided with detailed forecasts and preventive measures specific to their regions. According to Utsev, significant flood risks have been identified in 148 local government areas across 31 states, including Adamawa, Akwa-Ibom, and Anambra.
The outlook, divided into three scenarios, indicated heightened flood risks from April to November, with the most severe flooding expected between July and September. He stated, “Over ten states and the FCT have already experienced varying levels of flooding since April, resulting in casualties and property damage. “Notable incidents include the flooding in Trademore Estate, FCT, which led to two deaths and significant property loss.
” Utsev underscored the need for states and local government areas to intensify flood prevention measures, such as clearing blocked drainage systems, relocating residents from flood-prone areas, and constructing flood.
