Authorities in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states have activated emergency response measures following warnings of heavy rainfall and potential flooding across the North-West region.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had earlier listed Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Niger, and Kwara among states at high risk of severe flooding in 2025.
In Sokoto State, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) confirmed it is working closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Red Cross, and security agencies to strengthen disaster response.
Relief materials – including food items and building supplies – have been stockpiled in anticipation of displacement. SEMA’s Director of Relief and Rehabilitation, Mustapha Umar, disclosed that “no fewer than 1,400 households in Kware Local Government Area have already been affected by floods.”
In Zamfara State, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Musa Kainuwa, announced that waterways are being cleared to reduce flood risks. He cautioned residents against dumping refuse in drainages and urged riverine communities to relocate to safer grounds.
“We are clearing waterways and sensitizing communities. People must stop dumping refuse in drainages,” Kainuwa said.
The Zamfara Emergency Management Agency (ZEMA) is conducting awareness campaigns in high-risk areas, recalling that over 4,000 houses were destroyed in last year’s floods in Gummi and Talata Mafara Local Government Areas.
In Kebbi State, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Muhammad Hamidu-Jarkuka, said the government has implemented proactive measures, including community sensitization and logistics support.
“We have made budgetary allocations to assist victims and are working to enlighten communities before the rains worsen,” he stated.
NEMA’s Sokoto field office confirmed that it has conducted flood response simulation exercises across the three states to improve coordination among emergency teams.
With rainfall intensifying across the region, officials are urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with emergency directives.
