NEMA orders immediate evacuation of high-risk floodplain residents

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has directed residents of flood-prone communities along the River Niger to evacuate without delay, following rising water levels upstream in the Republic of Benin.

NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, issued the directive in a statement on Friday, stressing that communities in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states face the greatest risk due to their proximity to the river and shared borders with Benin Republic.

“Residents in high-risk flood plains must move to safer, higher grounds immediately,” Umar warned, adding that NEMA field offices have been instructed to intensify sensitisation campaigns and community mobilisation.

She also urged state governments to strengthen their State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) to activate contingency plans and preparedness measures.

Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to coordinated action, noting that the agency is working with stakeholders to reduce the impact of potential flooding and safeguard lives and livelihoods.

Residents were further advised to stay updated on official alerts, follow evacuation instructions, and prepare emergency plans, including designated routes and contact numbers.