Federal Government Warns of Impending Flood Disaster Across 15 States

The Federal Government has issued an urgent flood warning for 15 northern states and 68 high-risk locations as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reveals devastating 2025 flood statistics. According to the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre, heavy rainfall predicted between August 10-14 may trigger severe flooding in vulnerable areas.

The affected states include Adamawa, Bauchi, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Kano, Niger, Taraba, Jigawa, Yobe, Zamfara, Sokoto, Borno and Kwara. Specific high-risk communities range from Jimeta in Adamawa to Jebba in Kwara State.

NEMA’s latest disaster dashboard paints a grim picture: 140,228 affected persons, 49,205 displaced residents, 10,663 damaged houses, and 9,454 flooded farmlands across 21 states. Imo State bears the heaviest impact with 28,030 victims, followed by Rivers (22,345), Adamawa (12,613), Abia (11,907) and Delta (8,810).

The humanitarian crisis includes 191 confirmed deaths, 94 missing persons, and 239 injuries. Vulnerable groups comprise 28,505 men, 43,531 women, 62,393 children, 5,799 elderly, and 1,887 persons with disabilities affected by the disaster.

Experts attribute the recurring floods to multiple factors beyond Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam releases. Joshua Sanga of the Nigerian Institution of Water Engineers identifies climate change, high-intensity rainfall, blocked drainages, and dam operations as key contributors. He urges implementation of long-delayed flood prevention measures, including buffer dam construction at strategic locations.

The Federal Government faces significant response challenges including resource shortages (68.52%), inaccessible terrain (17.59%), and security risks (6.48%). Immediate needs include food, shelter, healthcare, and WASH facilities for displaced populations.