The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued an urgent advisory for residents in flood-prone areas of Abia State to immediately relocate to safer locations ahead of predicted flooding expected to begin in August.
NSCDC Abia State Commandant, Akinsola Aderemi, made this announcement in a press statement released on Friday at the state command headquarters and signed by Doreen Udugwu, the Public Relations Officer of the Abia Command.
The warning comes following forecasts from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET), which have predicted significant flooding in several parts of the state beginning next month.
Commandant Aderemi emphasized that the NSCDC has already mobilized its Disaster Management Unit to coordinate with area commanders and divisional officers in conducting extensive sensitization campaigns across all 17 local government areas in the state.
"We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Abia residents, and I assure the public of our dedication to duty and the unrelenting effort of my officers to protect lives and properties during this period," Commandant Aderemi stated.
High-Risk Areas Identified
According to the Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) released by NIHSA and NiMET, nine local government areas in Abia State have been identified as high-risk zones for flooding. These include Aba North, Isiala Ngwa North, Isuikwuato, Ukwa East, Ukwa West, Umuahia North, Umuahia South, and Arochukwu.
The sensitization campaigns are specifically designed to educate communities about flood risks and necessary preparedness measures to minimize potential damage and casualties.
This warning comes as part of the NSCDC's core mandate to respond to natural disasters and protect citizens from potential hazards. Residents in the identified high-risk areas are strongly advised to take the warning seriously and make arrangements to relocate before the predicted flooding begins.
The NSCDC has assured that its officers will remain vigilant and ready to assist communities throughout this challenging period, working closely with other emergency response agencies to ensure coordinated efforts in managing any flood-related incidents.
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