The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has raised a red flag for 148 communities spread across 17 local government areas in Jigawa State, warning that they are highly susceptible to flooding during the 2026 rainy season. This alert came during a disaster preparedness meeting held in Dutse, as part of a nationwide effort to bolster resilience against natural calamities.
Speaking on behalf of NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar, the North-West Zonal Director Aliyu Shehu pointed out that settlements located near rivers and waterways face a significant danger of inundation. He urged residents to adopt preventive steps before the peak of the rainfall season arrives.
The gathering, held under the banner “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria,” attracted representatives from emergency response bodies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders. Their objective was to explore ways to reduce the impact of possible disasters.
NEMA issued practical advice to those living in high-risk zones: relocate if necessary, ensure drainage channels remain unblocked, and stay updated on weather alerts and official announcements. The agency also emphasized the importance of knowing evacuation routes and emergency procedures.
According to NEMA, flood events rank among the most devastating natural hazards in Nigeria, causing deaths, displacement, ruin of homes and farmlands, and damage to public infrastructure. The agency reiterated that early action and public awareness are vital to cutting disaster-related losses.
The Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hannafi Yakubu, assured locals that the state is ready to handle emergencies. He announced that 20 speedboats have been set aside for evacuation and rescue missions in susceptible communities. Additionally, Yakubu confirmed that relief supplies, including food and essential goods, have been prepared to support flood victims.
Officials from the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency reported that efforts to desilt drains and carry out environmental sanitation are being scaled up across the state. These measures aim to improve water flow and lower the chances of urban flooding.
Participants at the session stressed the need for enhanced early warning systems, greater community awareness, better environmental stewardship, and well-coordinated emergency responses to tackle the looming flood threats.