The National Emergency Management Agency has alerted residents of Kebbi State to possible flooding and other weather-related hazards ahead of the 2026 rainy season.
The warning followed projections contained in the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency.
In a statement issued in Birnin Kebbi on Friday, the Head of NEMA Sokoto Operations Office, Tukur Abubakar, said Kebbi was among the states classified as high flood-risk areas for 2026.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over the impact of climate change and recurring floods across several parts of Nigeria, particularly in riverine and low-lying communities that experience annual displacement, destruction of farmlands and infrastructure damage during heavy rainfall.
According to the statement, Kebbi is expected to experience significantly higher rainfall than in 2025, with heavy downpours likely to trigger flash floods in several communities.
“Kebbi has been classified among Nigeria’s high flood-risk states for 2026 and is projected to experience flooding under high, medium, and low-risk categories across various communities,” the statement said.
NEMA also warned residents to prepare for possible windstorms at the onset of the rainy season and advised communities, institutions and environmental stakeholders to intensify tree planting and environmental protection measures.
The agency specifically cautioned riparian communities and low-lying farming settlements along the Kebbi River system to remain vigilant and comply with flood warnings and possible evacuation directives.
It identified the period between July and September as the peak flood season, warning that the Kebbi River could overflow and inundate farmlands, riverside settlements and critical infrastructure.
“Elevated water levels could persist into October and November, prolonging the impact. About 97 road sections across the state are also at risk of flooding,” the statement added.
NEMA urged motorists and commuters to exercise caution, noting that floodwaters could conceal damaged roads, potholes and weakened bridges, thereby increasing the risk of accidents and transport disruption.
The agency further warned that the state might also experience a severe dry spell lasting about 21 days between June and August 2026, which could negatively affect farming activities and crop yields.
“Farmers are advised to adopt climate-smart practices, including planting drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops,” the statement noted.
The affected local government areas listed by the agency include Arewa, Dandi, Aleiro, Kalgo, Bunza, Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, Augie, Jega and Maiyama.
NEMA advised residents to clear blocked drainages and waterways, avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse, relocate from flood-prone areas and refrain from building structures on waterways and floodplains.
It also urged households to prepare emergency kits containing food items, potable water, medications and important documents, while advising residents to switch off electricity and secure their homes before evacuating during emergencies.
The agency encouraged communities to promptly report early signs of flooding to local authorities and emergency committees and called for investments in flood mitigation measures such as embankments, sandbags and improved drainage systems.
NEMA reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Kebbi State Government, local authorities, traditional institutions and emergency responders to minimise disaster risks and safeguard lives and property during the rainy season.
NAN
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