The Sokoto government is strengthening its communication strategies and response mechanisms to better prepare for and mitigate potential flooding. 

This includes improved early warning systems, proactive flood risk management, and strengthened collaboration between government agencies and local communities. 

The commissioner for water resources, Aminu Abdullahi, said this on Monday in Sokoto.

Mr Abdullahi said the government was aware of the forecasts of the 2025 Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Nigerian Hydrological Agency.

He said a stakeholders’ meeting was convened comprising the commissioner for environment and others from other relevant agencies and security organisations on the forecast.

Mr Abdullahi added that local government authorities, traditional institutions, farmers’ groups and other stakeholders were properly briefed on the strategies for circulation to people at different levels.

Also, Abubakar Umar, the head of NIHSA in Sokoto, said the agency plans to work with the state ministry of environment, water resources and agriculture to ensure seamless coordination.

Mr Umar said that Nigeria experienced flooding in 2012 and 2018, while similar incidents were closely replicated in 2022 with high rainfall and flows from Sokoto and Bakalori rivers, which serve as a major source of flood in Sokoto state and environs.

”The 2025 predictions were disseminated with forecast of expected floods in some areas that comprised Goronyo, Tangaza, Sokoto North, Sokoto South, Rabah, Silame, Wamakko, Kebbe, Yabo and Shagari local government areas.

”In 2022, 32 states of the federation were affected by flood and no fewer than 66,622 persons, 6,136 houses and many farmlands were affected in Sokoto state,” he said.

The head of NiMET in Sokoto, Yawale Baba, said the agency ensures prompt dissemination of information on weather and associated climatic situations to the state and relevant agencies.

Mr Baba said the information was simplified in local languages and shared with relevant organisations to ensure the right attention and responses.

(NAN)