Jigawa communities adopt emergency plans to mitigate flood risks

Communities identified as most vulnerable to flooding in Jigawa State have taken proactive measures to reduce the impact of the anticipated floods predicted for the 2026 rainy season.

The move follows forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which listed 15 local government areas in Jigawa State as flood-prone this year.

Among the frontline communities in Hadejia, Auyo and Miga Local Government Areas, residents have developed a Community Emergency Response Plan (CERP) aimed at protecting lives, livelihoods and property during emergencies.

The response plans were launched by the Nigerian Red Cross Society and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with support from the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid, and formally presented to community leaders during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Auyo Local Government Area.

The affected communities remain highly exposed to seasonal flooding, which often destroys farmlands, displaces families and disrupts economic activities.

The newly developed plans outline key actions to be taken before, during and after flooding, including preparedness strategies, emergency response procedures, early recovery measures and demobilisation processes.

Stakeholders said the documents are designed to empower local populations with the tools and protocols needed to mitigate risks, protect assets and save lives during the critical early hours of a disaster.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), represented by the Director of Planning of the agency, Muhammad Bala Sanusi, said the initiative would go a long way in reducing the impact of flooding across the state.

He noted that Jigawa had recorded significant progress in flood mitigation compared to previous years due to deliberate efforts by the state government.

According to him, part of the commitment includes the establishment of Local Emergency Management Committees in all 27 local government areas, as well as Ward Emergency Management Committees, to ensure swift response during emergencies.

Sanusi also disclosed that the state government has earmarked over N300 million for the procurement of emergency relief items.

He added that the adoption of the Community Emergency Response Plan in flood-prone local governments and across the country would further strengthen disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.

He urged members of the public to support government interventions by avoiding the dumping of refuse in drainage channels, culverts and other actions that could worsen flooding.