The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued an evacuation advisory to residents of 145 communities in Jigawa State identified as being at high risk of flooding during the 2026 rainy season.
The agency urged people in vulnerable areas to begin taking precautionary measures, including relocating from flood-prone locations, as authorities intensify efforts to reduce the impact of anticipated disasters.
The warning was issued on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement on disaster preparedness organised by NEMA in Dutse under the theme “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria.”
According to NEMA, communities located along riverbanks and major waterways face an increased risk due to rising water levels during the peak rainfall period.
Residents were also advised to avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels and to regularly monitor weather forecasts as well as official safety advisories.
“We are encouraging residents in flood-prone areas to take early action and comply with safety directives. Preparedness remains the most effective way to reduce the loss of lives and property during flooding incidents,” the agency said.
NEMA further urged communities to familiarise themselves with designated evacuation routes and emergency response procedures to ensure swift action in the event of rising floodwaters.
The agency also reiterated that flooding remains one of the most devastating natural disasters in Nigeria, often resulting in loss of lives, displacement of residents, destruction of farmlands, and damage to critical infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) assured residents that adequate measures have been put in place to respond effectively to any emergencies arising from the rainy season.
The Executive Secretary of SEMA, Hannafi Yakubu, disclosed that 20 speedboats had already been deployed to support evacuation and rescue operations in vulnerable communities.
“We have positioned rescue equipment and stocked relief materials, including food items and other essentials, to ensure prompt assistance for affected residents if flooding occurs,” Yakubu said.
In addition, officials of the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency said efforts to reduce flood risks have been intensified through ongoing drainage desilting activities.
Representing the NEMA Director-General, Zubaida Umar, the agency’s North-West Zonal Director, Aliyu Shehu, reiterated the need for collective action to protect vulnerable communities ahead of the peak of the rainy season.
Participants at the meeting also called for stronger early warning systems, increased public sensitisation, improved environmental management practices, and closer collaboration among stakeholders to mitigate the expected flood threats.