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Flooding: FG Orders Relocation from Floodplains
Flooding: FG Orders Relocation from Floodplains
By: Michael Mike
As many parts of the country continue to cave in to flooding, the federal government has ordered the relocation of vulnerable populations from floodplains
A public advisory on Wednesday by the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal read: “As the threat of flooding may increase due to forecast trends, we urge the States, Local Governments, Stakeholders, and all citizens to relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains.
“Avoid traveling to flood-prone areas; Follow evacuation orders; Desilt drainage systems; Motorists and pedestrians are cautioned to avoid crossing heavy run-off flow as well as cut-off highways; Stay informed through official channels and adhere to flood forecasts/alerts: All incidences of flooding should be adequately reported.”
The Minister while traveling that his ministry is working closely with State Governments, NEMA, and International Development Partners to minimize the impact of flooding as well as support affected communities, said: “Our commitment to mitigating flood disasters remains unwavering.”
He added that: “Our hearts goes out to the families of the fatalities recorded. Together, we can reduce the effects of flooding and ensure a safer Nigeria. We urge everyone to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines during this period.”
While giving update on flooding in Nigeria, Lawal said: “The 2024 flood season has been particularly severe, with many states across the country experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reported that over 1 million people have been affected, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions of Naira destroyed. The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding before our eyes.
The Minister on what has been the federal government’s response, said: “As it is the usual practice, in anticipation of the 2024 flooding season, the Federal Ministry of Environment took proactive measures to mitigate its impact. On March 27, 2024, the Ministry sent letters to all State Governments, including the FCT Administration, urging them to conduct flood awareness campaigns.”
He explained that the campaigns were aimed at ensuring the clearing of drainage and manhole systems, relocation of vulnerable populations from floodplains
and activation of emergency preparedness measures by NEMA, SEMA, and other relevant agencies.
He recalled that the Federal Ministry of Environment’s National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre recently issued a flood alert on September 4, identifying 21 states as high-risk zones for flooding between September 4-8, 2024, noting that in response to this alert, the Ministry promptly notified the affected states and stakeholders, urging them to take necessary precautions.
He said: “Additionally, residents living in floodplains along the River Niger and River Benue were advised to evacuate immediately due to the imminent risk of flooding caused by rising river levels.”
On the Alau Dam Flooding in Borno State, the Minister said it is a heartbreaking tragedy, stating that: “The unfortunate overflow of the dam has severely affected several communities, causing displacement and property damage. We are working closely with the Borno State Government and relevant agencies to provide support and bring succour to affected communities. We urge all relevant stakeholders responsible for recovery efforts to join us in this endeavour. Additionally, we advise those who may be affected to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.”
Flooding: FG Orders Relocation from Floodplains
Troops Foil Kidnapping Attempt, Rescue Injured Victim in Kaduna
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 7, Sub-Sector 71 of Operation Enduring Peace have foiled a kidnapping attempt along a highway in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Security sources told Zagazola that the incident occurred at about 12:15 a.m. on May 21 when troops deployed at Ungwan Gora checkpoint responded to distress information on suspected kidnappers operating along the road at Ungwan Dariya village.
The troops reportedly moved swiftly to the location, forcing the suspected kidnappers to abandon their mission and flee into surrounding areas.
During the operation, one victim was rescued with injuries sustained during the attack.
The victim was immediately evacuated to Confidence Hospital, Fadan Karshi, for medical treatment.
Security sources said efforts were ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects, while patrols had been intensified along the axis to prevent further incidents.
Troops Foil Kidnapping Attempt, Rescue Injured Victim in Kaduna
Suspected Kidnap Collaborator Dies in Custody After Arrest in Nasarawa
By: Zagazola Makama
A suspected collaborator of kidnappers has died after becoming unconscious while in military custody in Nasarawa State.
Security sources said troops of Sector 2 under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) intercepted the suspect at about 7:00 a.m. on May 19 at Ancha community in Akwanga Local Government Area.
The suspect was reportedly apprehended at Anguwan Makama following allegations of involvement in activities linked to kidnapping operations in the area.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly became unconscious.
He was immediately evacuated to Nunku Primary Health Care Centre for medical attention, where he was confirmed dead by health officials.
Sources added that the remains of the deceased were released to his family for burial in accordance with local customs.
Security authorities said further assessment would continue in line with standard procedures, while operations against kidnapping networks in the area remain ongoing.
Suspected Kidnap Collaborator Dies in Custody After Arrest in Nasarawa
U.S. AFRICOM Delegation Visits Maiduguri, Reaffirms Counterterrorism Cooperation
By: Zagazola Makama
A delegation from the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has visited the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri to strengthen ongoing counterterrorism cooperation in the Lake Chad region.
Security sources said the delegation, led by the Deputy Director of Operations/Cyber, Rear Admiral Cameron Chen, arrived at Maimalari Cantonment on May 20, where they were received by the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal O.F. Akinboyewa.
The visit featured a detailed briefing on the current threat assessment in the North-East and ongoing counterterrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the theatre of operations.
Discussions during the engagement focused on enhancing intelligence sharing, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) support, logistics interdiction, and improved operational coordination within the Lake Chad basin.
The delegation also reviewed ongoing multinational efforts aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities and disrupting logistics networks across the region.
Security sources said both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration under counterterrorism and counter-insurgency frameworks, including preparations for Operation Lake Sanity III.
The visit was described as successful and conducted without incident.
Authorities noted that international cooperation remains a key component in sustaining pressure on terrorist groups operating in the North-East.
U.S. AFRICOM Delegation Visits Maiduguri, Reaffirms Counterterrorism Cooperation
Troops Foil Protest Over Election Result Dispute in Kaduna
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Troops Foil Kidnapping Attempt, Rescue Injured Victim in Kaduna
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