The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has issued a grave warning that over 30 states are at high risk of severe flooding as the rainy season approaches, raising nationwide concern over the country’s lack of preparedness.
The warning follows the devastating floods recorded in previous years, most notably in Maiduguri, Borno State, where over one million people were affected.
Many residents lost their homes, sources of livelihood, and, tragically, their lives. Yet despite the scale of destruction, meaningful preventive action remains largely absent.
Last year’s floods left lasting scars. Streets in major cities were submerged, homes were swept away, and vast agricultural lands were destroyed.
Thousands of families were displaced and plunged into extreme hardship. Maiduguri stood out as one of the worst-hit areas, with entire communities forced to live in dire conditions.
NiMET’s latest advisory has reignited criticism over the recurring failure of federal and state governments to implement effective flood mitigation strategies.
Environmental experts argue that the impact of seasonal flooding could be drastically reduced through proper urban planning, the construction of functional drainage systems, and attention to changing climate patterns.
However, the situation on the ground remains unchanged. Poor infrastructure, unregulated urban development, and government inaction continue to place millions of Nigerians in danger.
Urgent action is now essential. Authorities must move swiftly to clear blocked drainages, construct durable water channels in flood-prone areas, educate communities on flood preparedness, enforce town planning regulations, and relocate residents living in high-risk zones.
The continued loss of lives and property due to flooding is no longer excusable. These disasters are no longer purely natural, they are compounded by poor governance and human negligence.
With climate change intensifying global weather extremes, the risk of more frequent and dangerous floods is real and rising. Citizens across Nigeria are calling on the government to treat flooding as a national emergency.
However, the catastrophe in Maiduguri should serve as a clear wake-up call. Waiting for another round of destruction before acting would be a costly and unforgivable mistake.
