Nigeria is currently facing a severe flood disaster that has led to the deaths of 179 people and the displacement of more than 200,000 individuals across 22 states.
The flooding, caused by relentless rainfall and the overflow of the Niger and Benue rivers, has devastated communities, farmlands, and homes, particularly in the northern regions.
A recent report from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) outlines the extensive damage and calls for urgent and sustained intervention to manage the escalating crisis.
According to NEMA’s 2024 Flood Updates, 137 local government areas in 28 states have been affected, with the most severe impacts observed in Bauchi, Zamfara, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Niger states. Sokoto, Bauchi, and Zamfara states have reported the highest numbers of displaced individuals, with 41,000, 35,000, and 32,000 people affected, respectively.
The floods have also ravaged 107,652 hectares of farmland, posing a significant threat to food security in the affected regions. Housing infrastructure has suffered extensively, with 80,049 homes either partially damaged or destroyed. Bauchi State alone has reported 18,000 houses destroyed, while Sokoto and Jigawa have seen 10,000 and 8,000 homes devastated, respectively.
The human toll has been significant, with 179 confirmed deaths in 15 states. Jigawa State has recorded the highest fatalities, with 34 deaths, followed by Bayelsa and Kano, each with 25 fatalities. Other states, including Bauchi, Taraba, Zamfara, and Sokoto, have also experienced considerable loss of life. The massive displacement of people has created a humanitarian crisis, leaving many without shelter, food, or access to basic services.
NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, highlighted the challenges the agency faces in managing the disaster, particularly due to limited funding.
During a visit by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, it was noted that financial constraints are hindering effective disaster management efforts. Gbajabiamila proposed the creation of a law requiring states to provide matching funds to support NEMA’s operations and stressed the importance of prioritizing flood prevention and disaster mitigation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the loss of life and widespread destruction caused by the floods.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu called for collaborative efforts to tackle Nigeria’s environmental challenges and build a more climate-resilient society. He assured the public of his administration’s commitment to providing support to the victims and enhancing early warning systems to prevent future disasters.
NEMA has warned that the flooding could worsen in the coming months, particularly in September and October.
The agency’s spokesperson, Manzo Ezekiel, pointed out that the northern states are especially vulnerable, with the potential for increased displacement and destruction. The rising water levels from the upper regions of the River Niger are expected to worsen the flooding downstream in Nigeria.
The impact on agriculture is another major concern, with Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, cautioning that this year’s harvests could be severely affected. Kyari emphasized the need for greater investment in technologies and practices that help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions and protect their livelihoods.
