News
NEMA Steps Up Flood Response Efforts Across Nigeria

NEMA Steps Up Flood Response Efforts Across Nigeria
By: Abdulkadir Ibrahim
In the wake of recent devastating floods that have severely impacted communities across Nigeria, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has intensified its efforts to mitigate the effects and provide essential relief to those affected. The scale of the disaster is significant, with 27 states affected, over 227,000 people displaced or impacted, 32,837 houses destroyed, and 16,488 hectares of farmland ravaged, according to data from NEMA’s Emergency Operations Centre.
This latest flood disaster underscores the vulnerability of many communities across the country to extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. NEMA’s rapid response is crucial in providing immediate relief and preventing further loss of life and property.
Proactive Measures and Timely Response
NEMA’s swift and decisive response to these flooding incidents highlights the agency’s commitment to disaster preparedness and proactive crisis management. Even before the floods struck, NEMA had taken steps to ensure a rapid response by mobilizing search and rescue teams, and placing all its zonal and operational offices on high alert. This foresight and readiness were essential in mitigating the immediate impacts of the floods, allowing for a quick deployment of resources and personnel to the most affected areas.
One of the key aspects of NEMA’s response strategy has been its collaboration with the various State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs). By working closely with state governments, NEMA has been able to conduct comprehensive assessments of the flood’s impact and coordinate the deployment of relief materials. These efforts have been instrumental in ensuring that assistance reaches those in need without delay.
The relief items stockpiled for immediate deployment by NEMA include essential supplies such as food, clothing, medical supplies, and temporary shelter. These items are critical in providing immediate support to displaced individuals and families, helping them to stabilize their situation as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives. The agency’s ability to rapidly mobilize and deliver these resources reflects its operational efficiency and the importance of its preparedness measures.
Public Awareness and Preventive Measures
While immediate relief efforts are essential, NEMA is also focused on long-term strategies to reduce the impact of future flooding incidents. One of the core components of this strategy is public education. NEMA has intensified its public sensitization campaigns, which are designed to raise awareness about the importance of solid waste management and the need to keep drainages and waterways clear. Blocked waterways are a major cause of flooding, and by addressing this issue, NEMA hopes to reduce the frequency and severity of future floods.
Grassroots awareness programs have been rolled out across the country, targeting communities that are particularly vulnerable to flooding. These programs involve workshops and advocacy campaigns aimed at educating residents on how to protect their environment and reduce the risk of floods. NEMA is also working with local governments and community leaders to promote the adoption of best practices in waste management and environmental stewardship.
Director General Zubaida Umar has been at the forefront of these efforts, emphasizing the critical role that communities play in flood prevention and response. She has urged communities living along waterways and in other high-risk areas to take proactive measures by relocating to safer, higher grounds ahead of the peak rainy season. Such preemptive actions are vital in reducing the potential for casualties and significant property damage.
Call to Action for Stakeholders
In addition to its efforts at the community level, NEMA is calling on all stakeholders involved in disaster management to remain vigilant and prepared to activate their flood response plans at short notice. With the increasing frequency of flood incidents, it is essential that SEMAs, local governments, and community leaders are ready to respond quickly and effectively to protect lives and property.
Director General Umar has also addressed concerns from farmers regarding the temporary dry season being experienced in some states. She assured them that this situation is temporary and is in line with the seasonal climate predictions released earlier this year by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). She advised farmers to remain calm and continue their agricultural activities, while staying informed about weather updates to ensure they can take appropriate action when necessary.
Commitment to Efficient Disaster Management
NEMA’s ongoing efforts to address the recent floods and prevent future disasters highlight the agency’s unwavering commitment to efficient disaster management in Nigeria. The agency’s proactive approach, which includes early preparedness, public education, and strong collaboration with state and local governments, serves as a model for disaster management practices across the country.
As Nigeria continues to face the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation, NEMA’s work is more important than ever. The agency’s ability to coordinate timely responses, enhance public awareness, and foster collaboration among various stakeholders is critical in mitigating the effects of natural disasters and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens.
NEMA’s efforts also underscore the importance of community involvement in disaster management. By empowering communities with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves, NEMA is helping to build a more resilient nation, capable of withstanding the increasing threat of natural disasters.
Looking Ahead
The challenges of managing natural disasters in Nigeria are complex and multifaceted, requiring a coordinated and sustained effort from all levels of government, as well as the active participation of the public. NEMA’s proactive stance, combined with its emphasis on preparedness, education, and collaboration, will be crucial in addressing these challenges and reducing the impact of future disasters.
As the rainy season continues, NEMA will remain vigilant, ready to respond to new flood incidents as they arise. The agency’s commitment to protecting lives and property, coupled with its focus on long-term disaster prevention, positions it as a key player in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate the risks associated with natural disasters.
*Abdulkadir Ibrahim
Press Unit NEMA Headquarters Abuja
16th August 2024
NEMA Steps Up Flood Response Efforts Across Nigeria
News
Massive Crowd in Maiduguri as Pastor Paul Enenche Leads Revival Crusade

Massive Crowd in Maiduguri as Pastor Paul Enenche Leads Revival Crusade
By: Zagazola Makama
A mammoth crowd of Christian worshippers gathered in Maiduguri for a revival crusade led by renowned Nigerian pastor, Dr. Paul Enenche, General Overseer of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Abuja.
The crusade, titled “Ignited: A Fire of Revival in Borno State,” saw thousands of Christians from across the North East convene for a night of prayers, worship, and spiritual upliftment in the heart of a city once at the center of insurgency.
Symbol of Peaceful Coexistence
The event, held without incident, served as a indication to the improving security situation in Borno and the resilience of the Christian community in the region. Worshippers sang, prayed, and listened to sermons focused on hope, unity, and faith despite past security challenges.

The gathering also comes amid recent clarifications by the Federal Government refuting allegations that Christians are being deliberately targeted in Nigeria especially in the North East.
Government officials have dismissed such claims as misleading narratives aimed at influencing foreign governments, particularly the United States, to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
Faith Over Fear
Many attendees described the crusade as a historic moment for Christians in the North East, emphasizing their right to practice their faith freely.
“This is a sign that peace is returning to Borno. The presence of this large number of Christians, worshipping at night in Maiduguri without fear, is a powerful message,” said Deborah Musa, a worshipper from Yobe State.
Another attendee, Pastor James Buba, praised the Dunamis International Gospel Centre for organizing the crusade, saying it has rekindled hope among believers in the region.

Despite past insurgency threats, Borno State has witnessed religious tolerance and restoration of peace, allowing such large-scale religious gatherings to take place safely.
The Federal Government has repeatedly maintained that Nigeria upholds religious freedom and that violence affecting communities is largely due to criminal activities and terrorism, rather than state-sponsored persecution. Officials have urged both local and international observers to avoid narratives that exaggerate religious divisions in the country.
As the revival ended, worshippers left the venue with renewed faith and optimism, seeing the event as a milestone in Borno’s path to peace and religious harmony.
Massive Crowd in Maiduguri as Pastor Paul Enenche Leads Revival Crusade
News
Three Arrested for Farm Destruction in Borno, Livestock Seized

Three Arrested for Farm Destruction in Borno, Livestock Seized
By: Zagazola Makama
Security operatives in Borno State have arrested three herders for allegedly allowing their livestock to destroy farmlands in Ajiri Town, Mafa Local Government Area.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspects, identified as Muhammadan Usman (27), Abba Muhammad (16), and Adamu Bangi (12), were apprehended on March 13, 2025, around 8:00 a.m. during a routine patrol by a combined security team.
It was gathered that the herders’ cattle invaded and damaged sections of the Firgi Guinea Corn Farm. Security operatives swiftly intervened and recovered 46 cows and 30 goats.
Police have taken the suspects and livestock into custody, and the Farmers-Herders Conflict Resolution Committee has been contacted.
Investigations are ongoing.
Three Arrested for Farm Destruction in Borno, Livestock Seized
Military
Troops Raid ISWAP Enclave in Dalari, Neutralize Four Insurgents, recover weapons, bombs

Troops Raid ISWAP Enclave in Dalari, Neutralize Four Insurgents, recover weapons, bombs
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army troops of 21 armored Brigade, Operation Hadin Kai have successfully raided an Islamic State of the West African Province(ISWAP) enclave in Dalari, Borno State, neutralizing four insurgents and recovering arms and ammunition.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama, that the troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force as well as the Hybrid forces conducted the Operation in the early hours of March 15, 2025.

The troops under Operation Desert Sanity 4, engaged the insurgents in a firefight at approximately 7:10 a.m., resulting in the elimination of four terrorists, while several others escaped with injuries.

During the clearance operation, the troops recovered: One RPG tube, one AK-47 rifle, one Dane gun, two RPG bomb chargers, three RPG bombs and 504 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.
No casualties were recorded from the side of the troops.
Troops Raid ISWAP Enclave in Dalari, Neutralize Four Insurgents, recover weapons, bombs
-
News1 year ago
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News12 months ago
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions3 years ago
POLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
Columns1 year ago
Army University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
ACADEMICS1 year ago
A History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Opinions1 year ago
Tinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
National News1 year ago
Fraud and Mismanagement Rock INGO’s IDP Cash Assistance Effort in Bama