Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Water Resources has
sympathized with all Nigerians affected by the recent flood in Lagos and
Niger state, blaming the flooding as a result of the delay in rainfall
which caused the long duration of the torrential downpour.
Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, delivered the government’s sympathy at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
While revealing the cause of the heavy downpour, the minister also
told journalists that about 30 states and over 100 local government
areas, which had been categorized as high flood risk areas, could expect
heavy flooding this year.
He said: “Summary of the alert is that approximately thirty (30)
states and over one hundred (100) LGAs are categorised as high flood
risk areas and therefore could expect flooding.
“The rains did not start early this year, thereby possibly causing
long duration torrential downpour and causing unexpected urban/flash
floods in areas with the non-existing or inadequate drainage system in
the country.
“The flow of surface water is being monitored by NIHSA while alerts
will continue to be issued. Also, sensitisation of the entire nation by
visiting the grassroots will soon be embarked upon.
“Urban/flash floods (i.e overflow due to sustained rainfall) in the
urban cities or semi-urban areas can be reduced with effective and
adequate drainage systems. People must not use this facility as refuse
bins which will block and render the facility useless with the
probability of flooding heightened when it rains.
“People in the riverine areas must not erect residential structures
on the flood plains as these areas are an extension of the river space.
Unfortunately, people have refused to yield to advice.”
“It is therefore suggested that state and local governments should do
more to enforce environmental laws/town planning guidelines, so as to
check such uncontrolled physical development activities,” he added
The minister’s statement comes on the day Acting President Yemi
Osinbajo approved the immediate release of N1.6 billion to 16 states
already affected by the flood.