Sokoto State, NEMA Launch Flood Preparedness Drive Ahead of Rainy Season

In a bid to mitigate the impact of flooding in Sokoto State, the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency, has embarked on a flood preparedness campaign. The campaign, which was inaugurated at the Sultan Maccido Institute for Qur'anic and General Studies Auditorium in Sokoto, aims to raise awareness among residents on the need to take proactive measures to prevent flood disasters. According to Prof. Abubakar Junaidu, the Executive Secretary of Sokoto SEMA, who represented the Special Adviser overseeing the agency, Aminu Bodinga, Sokoto State has experienced severe flooding in recent years, resulting in the destruction of homes, farmlands, and critical infrastructure. Junaidu noted that forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency indicate a high likelihood of significant rainfall and flooding in some parts of the country, making it imperative for residents to be prepared. The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by the Head of Operations, NEMA Sokoto Office, Tukur Abubakar, revealed that 132 local government areas across Nigeria have been classified as high flood-risk zones, while 148 LGAs in 14 states fall within moderate-risk areas. Sokoto State is among the states requiring special attention, with Goronyo, Gudu, Kebbe, Kware, Sabon Birni, Silame, Sokoto North, and Wamakko local government areas identified as particularly vulnerable. The NEMA Director-General explained that the agency has developed its 2026 Climate-Related Risk Management, Preparedness, and Mitigation Framework, which focuses on strengthening local emergency response capacity, conducting simulation exercises, and pre-positioning relief materials. She called for a whole-of-society approach to flood preparedness, stressing that traditional rulers, religious organizations, women and youth groups, the media, and private sector stakeholders must support the dissemination of early warning messages and preparedness measures. The campaign brought together government officials, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and media practitioners to strengthen coordination and improve flood preparedness across Sokoto State.