Residents of Anambra and Oyo States have been warned to prepare for the impacts of the rainy season as forecasts indicate a heightened risk of flash flooding. The Oyo State Government alerted residents across all 33 local council areas to the increased danger this month, based on a High Impact-Based Forecast from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
NSCDC Advises Riverine Communities
Similarly, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, advised residents of riverine communities to remain vigilant and be ready to move to higher ground as water levels rise. NSCDC State Commandant in Anambra, Maku Olatunde, gave this advice at the Command Headquarters in Awka as part of a proactive awareness campaign aimed at reducing flooding and related hazards.
Oyo Commissioner Urges Precaution
Oyo Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, stated that forecasts indicate a likelihood of high-intensity thunderstorms and heavy surface runoff, which could trigger temporary flooding in communities and on major roads. He emphasized that residents must take precautionary measures to minimize risks associated with the anticipated weather conditions.
The commissioner noted that the state government has intensified efforts to clear critical drainage channels and waterways to mitigate flooding during the rainy season. However, he stressed that government intervention alone would not be sufficient without the cooperation of residents.
“While the state government has intensified the clearing of critical drainage channels across the state, residents must also play their part by ensuring that drains, gutters and waterways around their homes and communities are free of plastic bottles, silt and other waste materials that obstruct the free flow of water,” he said.
Aderinto also cautioned motorists and pedestrians against driving or walking through flooded roads, especially during heavy rainfall. “Motorists and pedestrians should avoid driving or walking through flooded roads, particularly at night, as flash floods can be deceptive and powerful enough to sweep away vehicles and individuals,” he warned.
Partnerships for Mitigation
Speaking on behalf of the Commandant, Head of Media and Tactical Operations, SC Okadigbo Edwin, noted that heavy rains often increase the risk of flooding, building collapse, erosion, and other environmental hazards. He confirmed the Corps’ partnership with the state government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), local council chairmen, and other partners, including the activation of comprehensive mitigation strategies to cushion the impact of any incidents during the 2026 rainy season.
Kano State Addresses Erosion
Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing environmental degradation, flooding, and erosion in vulnerable communities. The Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, gave the assurance during an inspection visit to the Bulbula Gayawa erosion site, which spans Nasarawa and Ungogo Local Council Areas. The visit was part of activities marking this year’s World Environment Day, observed globally on June 5.
Hashim said the visit served both commemorative and assessment purposes, focusing on ongoing intervention projects under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. “This community has waited for this intervention for many years. During the campaign period, His Excellency promised to address this issue, and today we are witnessing real progress on the ground,” he said.
