The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has issued a warning to residents of Kano State, stating that 14 out of the state’s 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs) face a high risk of flooding during the rainy season.
Dr. Nuradeen Abdullahi, the Kano/Jigawa Territorial Coordinator for NiMET, made the announcement at a Disaster Risk Management Stakeholders Coordination Meeting.
He identified the high-risk LGAs as Rimin Gado, Tofa, Kabo, Madobi, Garum Malam, Bebeji, Rano, Dawakin Kudu, Warawa, Wudil, Sumaila, Ajingi, Kura, and Dala.
Five additional LGAs – Karaye, Takai, Bunkure, Dawakin Tofa, and Makoda – were designated as moderately prone to flooding. The remaining 25 LGAs were categorized as low risk.
The meeting aimed to develop strategies to mitigate the predicted flooding. Collaboration with the Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) was emphasized to remind stakeholders of their roles in addressing climate change and the high costs associated with environmental disasters.
Dr. Abdullahi highlighted that women and children are typically the most vulnerable during the rainy season. He urged residents in flood-prone areas to take preventative measures before the season arrives.
Hajiya Amina Abdullahi, the state’s Commissioner for Humanitarian and Poverty Eradication, confirmed the government’s commitment to resident safety. She announced the formation of a high-powered committee led by the deputy governor to oversee the cleaning of drainage systems across all LGAs in order to prevent flooding.
“Careful planning for preparedness and response can significantly reduce disasters or emergencies within communities,” the Commissioner emphasized.
