The Federal Government has warned that heavy rainfall between September 4 and 8 could trigger flooding in at least 15 states across the country.
The alert, released on Thursday by the Federal Ministry of Environment through its National Flood Early Warning Centre, listed 43 locations that may be affected.
It was signed by the Director of the Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, Usman Abdullahi Bokani.
The statement noted that flooding remains one of Nigeria’s biggest environmental challenges, stressing that communities must brace up for the predicted downpour.
“The Ministry wishes to alert residents in the identified locations to take precautionary measures as heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days,” Bokani said.
“The safety of lives and property is paramount, and citizens are advised to avoid waterways and adhere to early warnings.”
The states listed include Ebonyi (Afikpo); Cross River (Edor, Ikom, Itigidi, Akpap); Kano (Gwarzo, Karaye); Zamfara (Anka, Gummi, Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Shinkafi, Bukkuyum); Taraba (Dampar, Duchi, Garkowa, Gassol, Gembu, Gun Gun Bodel, Kambari, Mayo Ranewo, Mutum Biyu, Bandawa, Ngaruwa); Abia (Eziama, Umuahia); Yobe (Geidam, Kanama, Potiskum); Plateau (Langtang, Shendam, Wase); Borno (Ngala); Imo (Okigwe, Otoko); Niger (Sarki Pawa); Sokoto (Sokoto, Wamakko, Isa, Shagari, Makira); Kaduna (Kafanchan); and Akwa Ibom (Oron).
The development comes shortly after the Chinese government donated $1m to support Nigeria’s flood relief efforts in northern states.
At the signing ceremony in Abuja, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, described the donation as “timely and critical.”
“This intervention will complement the government’s drive to deliver relief materials and rebuild livelihoods in severely impacted communities,” he said. “A transparent framework will ensure the assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries in the most efficient and impactful manner.”
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, reaffirmed his country’s solidarity with Nigeria.
“In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together,” he said. “We extend our condolences to those who have lost their lives and reaffirm our commitment to supporting flood victims.”
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted thunderstorms and rainfall in several northern states, warning of possible flash floods in parts of Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano.