The director-general, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, has directed all field offices covering communities along the River Niger to step up advocacy and mobilisation efforts.

Ms Umar, in a statement on Friday in Abuja, said the directive followed alerts of rising water levels in the upstream of the river in the Republic of Benin.

“Residents in Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states, which share borders with the Benin Republic, are particularly at risk and are advised to take necessary precautions.

”NEMA offices have been instructed to sensitise communities to remain vigilant and advise residents in high-risk floodplains to evacuate to safer, higher ground,” she said.

The director-general urged state governments to strengthen their Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) in activating contingency plans and preparedness measures.

Ms Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to coordinated actions to safeguard lives and livelihoods along the River Niger.

”The agency is working to mitigate the potential impact of this year’s flooding and protect communities at risk,” she said.

The states most vulnerable to flooding are Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara, owing to their proximity to the Benin Republic and their location along the River Niger.

Residents in high-risk areas are advised to stay up-to-date with the latest information on flood warnings and evacuation instructions.

Such states should have a plan in place in case of flooding, including evacuation routes and emergency contact numbers.

States likely to be affected by floods have been advised to follow instructions from NEMA and local authorities to ensure safety.

(NAN)