The Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Water Resources warned Nigerians of the impending flood which might occur in 30 states of the federation.
The warning is contained in a statement released by the ministry sympathizing with Nigerians affected by the heavy flooding in Lagos and Niger states.
The Ministry in its statement blamed the flooding on the delay in rainfall which caused the long duration of the torrential downpour leading to flooding particularly in the two locations.
Sympathizing with Nigerians who have lost properties and have been displaced by the heavy floods, the Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, delivered the government’s sympathy at a news conference held on Wednesday in Abuja.
While speaking during the conference, the minister disclosed that about 30 states and over 100 local government areas have been marked to possibly experience heavy flooding this year.
Suleiman Adamu during the conference 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.”
The minister’s statement however comes hot on the heels of the approval of the sum of N1.6 billion by the Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo to 16 states already affected by the heavy flooding.