NEMA Flags 148 Flood Risk Communities in Jigawa

NEMA has warned that dozens of communities across Jigawa State face a high flood risk during the 2026 rainy season.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has identified 148 communities across 17 local government areas in Jigawa State as highly vulnerable to flooding, urging residents and authorities to strengthen preparedness ahead of peak rainfall periods.

The warning was issued during a stakeholders’ engagement on disaster preparedness held in Dutse as part of NEMA’s nationwide campaign to improve resilience against natural disasters. The event, themed “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria,” brought together emergency agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for reducing disaster risks.

Representing NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar, the agency’s North-West Zonal Director, Aliyu Shehu, said communities located along riverbanks and major waterways face the greatest threat from potential flooding this year.

The flood risk warning comes as authorities intensify efforts to encourage early action among residents. NEMA advised people living in vulnerable areas to relocate where necessary, keep drainage channels free from waste and closely monitor weather forecasts and official alerts.

The agency also urged communities to familiarise themselves with evacuation routes and emergency response procedures. According to NEMA, flooding remains one of Nigeria’s most damaging natural disasters, often leading to loss of lives, displacement of residents and extensive damage to homes, farmlands and public infrastructure.

Speaking at the meeting, Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Executive Secretary Hannafi Yakubu said the state is prepared to respond to emergencies if flooding occurs. He disclosed that 20 speedboats have already been deployed to support evacuation and rescue operations in at-risk communities.

Yakubu also revealed that relief materials, including food supplies and other essential items, have been stocked for emergency distribution.

Meanwhile, officials of the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency said drainage clearing and environmental sanitation exercises have been intensified to improve water flow and reduce the threat of urban flooding.

Do you think enough is being done to protect flood-prone communities before the rainy season reaches its peak?