Reports from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NHSA) have identified three local government areas in Gombe State, namely Nafada, Yamaltu/Deba, and Balanga, as being at a higher risk of flooding as the 2023 rainy season intensifies.
In response to these reports, the State Government has taken proactive measures to mitigate the effects of the floods and other impending environmental challenges predicted to affect the state.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has directed the Ministry of Environment and Forest Resources to collaborate with relevant stakeholders and activate state emergency response and management resources to ensure the safety of lives and properties while mitigating the effects of the upcoming weather events and their potential life-threatening consequences.
The Ministry of Environment has constituted a task force to engage all relevant stakeholders, including the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Gombe State Environmental Sanitation and Protection Agency (GOSEPA), Ministries of Works, Health, and Education, as well as non-governmental organizations. Regular consultative meetings will be held to devise strategies for mitigating the impact of potential incidents.
The Ministry has also launched an aggressive advocacy exercise and community sensitization campaign in flood-prone areas within the state to educate people about self-precautionary and mitigating measures.
The government, through the Ministry of Environment, has initiated the desilting of drainages and water channels, as well as a 2km radius around all ten local government headquarters in the state. This is to prevent flash floods and ensure proper drainage of runoffs, particularly in densely populated areas.
The crisis response unit of the Ministry is on alert for constant monitoring of weather patterns and environmental changes, enabling prompt and timely response to any environmental issues that may threaten the safety of lives and properties.
Shelter zones have been identified in all local government areas to serve as havens for displaced persons during emergencies, and these centres have been equipped with the necessary amenities and services.
The Ministry of Environment is also collaborating with the Ministry of Education to ensure that schools and the entire education system are not disrupted by flooding or severe weather phenomena.
The Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has confirmed its readiness to fully participate in the entire risk management process. The agency has assured the public that it has adequate stock to support individuals who may find themselves in an emergency due to weather events. It advises members of the public to adhere to early warning signals of potential flooding and to avoid building on flood plains and waterways.
(Source: Statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House Gombe)