Dare Babalola
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Sokoto Operations Office, has alerted residents of Kebbi State to impending flood risks 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 (NiMet) and the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
In a statement on Friday, Head of NEMA Sokoto Operations Office, Tukur Abubakar, said Kebbi had been classified among states with high flood risk for 2026.
He said the state was expected to receive significantly more rainfall than in 2025, with heavy and high-intensity 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 of possible windstorms at the onset of the rainy season and urged residents, institutions and environmental stakeholders to intensify tree planting and other measures to reduce environmental degradation and storm damage.
The agency advised riparian communities and low-lying farming settlements along the Kebbi River system to remain vigilant and comply with flood warnings and evacuation directives issued by relevant authorities.
It identified July to September as the most critical flood period, 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 potholes, eroded sections and damaged bridges, thereby increasing accident risks and disrupting transport routes.
The agency further warned that Kebbi might experience a severe dry spell of about 21 days between June and August 2026, which could threaten agricultural activities and crop yields.
It advised farmers to adopt climate-smart practices, including planting drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops.
According to the statement, the affected local government areas are Arewa, Dandi, Aleiro, Kalgo, Bunza, Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, Augie, Jega and Maiyama.
NEMA urged residents to clear drainage channels and waterways, avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse, relocate from flood-prone areas and refrain from building on waterways and floodplains.
It also advised households to prepare emergency kits containing food, potable water, medications and important documents, while ensuring electricity is switched off and homes secured before evacuation.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Kebbi State Government, local authorities, traditional institutions, emergency responders and other stakeholders to reduce disaster risks and protect lives and property.
