The National Emergency Management Agency has flagged 148 communities across Jigawa State as at serious risk of flooding when the rains arrive in 2026.
These vulnerable zones span 17 local government areas in the state. The warning came during a disaster preparedness meeting held in Dutse on Thursday.
Aliyu Shehu, NEMA's North-West Zonal Director, represented the agency's Director-General at the event. He noted that communities near rivers and waterways face the highest danger.
Residents in those areas must take action now, Shehu advised. Precautionary steps are essential before the rainy season peaks.
The gathering brought together emergency officials, traditional leaders, and community representatives. They discussed ways to reduce disaster impact under the theme "Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria."
NEMA urged people in flood zones to move from at-risk locations if they can. Don't block drainage channels with rubbish, the agency stressed.
Communities should study evacuation routes carefully. They must also stay alert to weather updates and official flood alerts.
Flooding destroys homes, farms, and infrastructure across Nigeria each year. It displaces thousands and costs lives.
Early action and awareness can save lives, NEMA insisted. Preparation matters more than waiting for disaster to strike.
Hannafi Yakubu, boss of Jigawa's emergency management body, promised swift action. His agency has positioned 20 speedboats to help with rescues in vulnerable areas.
Relief supplies are already stockpiled across the state. Food and basic items will reach flood victims quickly if needed.
State environmental officials say they're clearing drains and cleaning up. Better water flow means less urban flooding risk.
Meeting participants called for better early warning systems. Community education, environmental care, and coordinated emergency response were flagged as critical.
The state must strengthen all these areas now. Waiting until floods come will be too late.
