Kano: The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in a move to bolster Nigeria’s disaster preparedness, conducted a ‘Full-Scale Flood Response Simulation’ exercise in Wudil Local Government Areas, Kano State. The Agency’s Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, during the simulation exercise on Saturday, emphasised the critical importance of readiness in the face of Nigeria’s recurring flood disasters.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, recent predictions by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have identified Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara as high-risk flood zones for 2025. The urgency of the exercise with downstream impact in Kano, Jigawa, and Yobe States was underscored by the devastating flood that recently struck Mokwa in Niger State, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by natural disasters.
The exercise aimed to simulate a forced water release from Tiga, Challawa, and Bagauda Dams to test emergency preparedness for potential dam-induced flooding along River Kano. Mrs. Umar explained that the simulation was designed not only to test existing emergency plans and protocols but also to identify gaps and enhance coordination among all stakeholders.
Gov. Abba Yusuf reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the safety, well-being, and resilience of Kano’s citizens in the face of environmental and climate-induced challenges. He noted that the increasing frequency and severity of floods, particularly from Bagauda, Chalawa, and Tiga Dams, underscores the urgency for active planning and collaboration.
Sen. Mustapha Khabib, representing Jigawa Southwest, expressed confidence in the local communities’ disaster preparedness. He described the exercise as ‘very impressive and well organised,’ noting the cooperation and support of the local population. Khabib, a member of the Senate Committee on Special Duties overseeing NEMA, said, ‘With this simulation exercise and the ongoing sensitisation efforts regarding flood risks, I am confident that these local communities are well mobilised and adequately trained on how best to provide rescue and aid services.’
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the simulation exercise included practical demonstrations of rescue operations, aid distribution, and community mobilisation strategies. It aimed to enhance the resilience of flood-prone communities and ensure swift, coordinated responses in the event of an actual disaster.
The successful drill marks a major step forward in disaster management efforts in Jigawa State, reinforcing the importance of community involvement and government collaboration in safeguarding lives and property from natural calamities.