Late Rain will Cause Flooding in Many Parts of the Country – FG

The Federal government has said that massive rains are expected to cause flooding in many parts of the country.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Nana Mede explained that heavy rain expected in the coming months and release of excess water from Lagdo Dam in Cameroon will have a huge environmental impact.

She said “The impending gradual release of excess water from Lagdo Dam by our neighbouring country, Cameroon, which they have hinted could take place any time soon and the rains in the coming months pose serious threats to lives and property. The states that are likely to be affected are Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, Benue and Kogi.

“On a general scale, the massive rains are also expected to cause flooding in many parts of the country. River flooding will affect Sokoto, Niger, Benue and Anambra states. Coastal flooding resulting from sea level rise and tidal surges may occur in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta and Lagos states.

“Flash floods could be experienced in some urban locations such as Lagos, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Birnin Kebbi, Ibadan and other towns along the country’s coastline.

“Furthermore, the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency has also presented the 2015 Annual Flood Outlook for the country to the public and it also confirms that there is every possibility of flooding.

“The ministry is therefore appealing to states, local governments, NGOs, churches, mosques, traditional rulers and community based organisations to take immediate steps to sensitise the people and communities as well as ensure that all the necessary things are done to avoid unnecessary loss of lives and property.

“In extreme cases, state governments and local authorities should prepare to evacuate residents. Public places should be designated and prepared for any eventuality. The ministry has already called for emergency meeting of stakeholders to discuss on elaborate strategies for tackling the impending flood.”

There have always been cases of heavy flooding in many parts of the country, in 2014, the Federal government spent a total of N17bn in tackling floods across the country.