As part of efforts to curb the annual threat of flooding in Jigawa State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), through its Kano Operations Office, joined a coordinated flood preparedness and refuse management sensitization campaign on Wednesday, 9th July 2025.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency (JISEPA) in partnership with the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (JISEMA), brought together stakeholders from across the emergency response and environmental sectors to raise awareness about responsible waste disposal and its direct impact on flood mitigation.
The initiative comes in response to the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), alongside the Annual Flood Outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), both of which identified several flood-prone communities within Jigawa State as being at high risk during the peak of the rainy season.
NEMA’s participation in the campaign underscores its national mandate in disaster risk reduction and early warning communication. According to officials, the agency’s involvement aims to further strengthen inter-agency coordination and public engagement, particularly in local government areas that have historically been affected by devastating floods.
The sensitization exercise commenced at the Ringim Town Hall and later moved to Dabi Town, both known for experiencing repeated flood incidents in past years. These areas were deliberately chosen to drive home the message of preparedness and prevention in high-risk communities.
Addressing the crowd, representatives from NEMA and other agencies urged residents to stop the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels, noting that blocked waterways significantly contribute to the intensity and frequency of flood disasters. Communities were also advised to take early warnings seriously and participate in coordinated evacuation efforts when necessary.
In attendance were key stakeholders including JISEMA, JISEPA, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vice chairmen from various local governments who also serve as heads of Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs), as well as respected traditional rulers, community leaders, and religious figures.
The campaign ended with a renewed commitment from all participating agencies to continue grassroots sensitization and work collaboratively to reduce the risks associated with floods, particularly through sustainable environmental practices and stronger community involvement.
