Clear drainages, heed flood warnings as rains intensify ‐ NEMA warns communities

With the rainy season intensifying and flood risks mounting nationwide, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged communities to clear drainage channels, stop dumping waste in waterways, relocate from flood-prone areas, and heed early warning advisories to prevent avoidable disasters.

Director General of NEMA, Mr Zubaida Umar, gave the advice in Yobe State.

She said the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction and Annual Flood Outlook indicate heightened flood risks across Nigeria, including parts of Yobe that have historically suffered displacement, farmland loss, and infrastructure damage.

“Communities are encouraged to clear drainage channels, avoid indiscriminate dumping of waste in waterways, relocate from highly flood-prone locations where necessary, and strictly heed early warning advisories,” Mrs Umar said.

The NEMA DG also called on parents to keep children away from flood waters and erosion-prone areas during heavy rainfall.

“I also call on traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and community volunteers to support awareness creation and mobilization efforts aimed at strengthening community preparedness and resilience against flooding and other hazards”, she called.