Over 1 Million Nigerians Affected by Floods in 2024
In 2024, Nigeria has witnessed devastating floods that have affected over 1 million people across 29 states, leading to the loss of 259 lives. NEMA has displaced 625,239 people due to floods, primarily affecting Borno, Kano, and other northern states. This recurring crisis continues to claim lives and displace thousands every year.
Major States Suffer Significant Losses
Floods in Borno State, caused by a breach in the Alu Dam, resulted in the deaths of at least 37 people, with many more trapped in submerged buildings. Floods claimed 49 lives in Kano, while Jigawa, Zamfara, and Bauchi also reported additional fatalities. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) suffered significant damage, with millions of naira worth of property destroyed and two lives lost.
Government’s Billions in Flood Prevention Projects
Despite the massive destruction, the federal government disbursed approximately N5 billion in the first quarter of 2024 for flood prevention projects in northern states. In Kano, N1.06 billion was spent on flood control road repairs, yet the state suffered 49 flood-related deaths. Similarly, Borno received N1.03 billion for prevention projects, but the floods still claimed dozens of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Ecological Fund Utilisation Under Scrutiny
Between January and May 2024, the federal government disbursed N15.8 billion as ecological funds to states, aimed at addressing environmental challenges like flooding. However, despite these investments, Nigerians continue to suffer from severe flooding, raising concerns over the effective use of these public funds. The frequent occurrence of floods calls for better management and accountability in disaster preparedness.
Experts Warn of Further Flooding Risks
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has issued warnings of more floods in states along the River Niger due to rising water levels. The agency’s Director-General, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, quoted reports from the Niger Basin Authority in Niamey, Niger Republic, urging affected communities to stay alert. The rising River Niger water levels present a continued threat to the already flood-ravaged regions.
Calls for Effective Flood Mitigation Efforts
As flood-related deaths and displacements continue to rise, experts and citizens are questioning the government’s handling of flood prevention projects. There are growing calls for the effective utilisation of funds, improved infrastructure, and more proactive measures to address Nigeria’s annual flood crisis. Without significant changes, the country may continue to suffer preventable losses every rainy season.
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