The Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency have launched the 2026 National Preparedness and Response Campaign on Flood Disaster and Related Hazards in Sokoto State, warning residents and communities in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant as the rainy season intensifies across the country.
The campaign, which is aimed at reducing the impact of flooding and other weather-related disasters, was officially inaugurated on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ engagement on imminent flooding and the dissemination of early warning messages held at the Sultan Maccido Institute for Qur’anic and General Studies Auditorium in Sokoto.
The event brought together government officials, emergency response agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations, environmental experts and other critical stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for preventing flood disasters and minimising their effects on lives and livelihoods.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, the Executive Secretary of Sokoto SEMA, Abubakar Junaidu, who represented the Special Adviser overseeing the agency, Aminu Bodinga, stressed the importance of preparedness in addressing the recurring threat of flooding in the state.
According to him, flood disasters have continued to pose significant challenges to many communities in Sokoto, making it necessary for government agencies and residents to take proactive measures before the situation escalates.
Junaidu explained that the annual preparedness campaign was designed to raise awareness, educate communities on disaster risk reduction and encourage residents to heed official warnings and safety guidelines.
He noted that the state has experienced varying degrees of flooding over the years, resulting in extensive damage to homes, agricultural lands, roads, schools and other public infrastructure.
According to him, the devastating effects of previous floods have underscored the need for a coordinated response involving government institutions, local communities and development partners.
“Sokoto State has suffered varying degrees of flooding in recent years, destroying homes, farmlands, roads and other socio-economic assets,” he said.
He emphasized that the consequences of flooding go beyond physical destruction, often affecting food production, displacing families and disrupting economic activities in affected communities.
The SEMA executive secretary noted that early preparedness remains one of the most effective tools for reducing disaster-related losses, adding that timely information can save lives and protect valuable property.
He urged residents living in flood-prone areas to remain alert and cooperate with emergency management agencies by adhering to safety advisories and evacuation instructions whenever necessary.
The campaign also focused on the dissemination of early warning messages intended to help communities understand potential flood risks and take preventive action before disasters occur.
Officials at the event highlighted the importance of clearing drainage systems, avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse in waterways and refraining from building structures on floodplains or blocked water channels.
Participants were also encouraged to promote environmental protection measures that can help reduce the severity of flooding and improve community resilience.
Representatives of the National Emergency Management Agency reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and ensuring that states receive the support needed to manage emergencies effectively.
They stressed that the annual flood preparedness campaign forms part of broader efforts to build a culture of prevention and risk awareness across Nigeria.
Experts at the engagement warned that climate variability and increasing rainfall patterns continue to heighten the risk of flooding in many parts of the country, making preparedness more important than ever.
They explained that vulnerable communities must remain vigilant throughout the rainy season and take precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.
Stakeholders at the meeting also discussed the need for stronger collaboration among emergency agencies, local governments, traditional institutions and community-based organisations.
Many participants emphasized that effective disaster management requires collective responsibility and active participation from all segments of society.
Traditional rulers and community leaders present at the event pledged to support awareness campaigns in their respective communities and ensure that residents receive timely information on flood risks and safety measures.
They also promised to work closely with government agencies in identifying vulnerable areas and encouraging compliance with disaster prevention guidelines.
Farmers, who are often among the most affected by seasonal flooding, were advised to monitor weather forecasts and seek guidance from agricultural extension officers to minimise potential losses.
Officials noted that protecting agricultural activities remains a priority, given the crucial role farming plays in the economy and food security of the state.
The launch of the 2026 National Preparedness and Response Campaign is expected to strengthen disaster risk management efforts in Sokoto State and improve the capacity of communities to respond effectively to emergencies.
Observers say the initiative comes at a critical time as meteorological forecasts continue to indicate the possibility of significant rainfall in several parts of the country during the current season.
With memories of past flood disasters still fresh in the minds of many residents, authorities are hopeful that increased awareness, early warning dissemination and coordinated preparedness efforts will help reduce the impact of flooding this year.
As the rainy season progresses, emergency management agencies have assured residents that they will continue monitoring developments closely and providing timely information to ensure the safety and wellbeing of communities across Sokoto State.
The agencies further urged citizens to remain vigilant, report emerging threats promptly and support government efforts aimed at protecting lives, property and critical infrastructure from the devastating effects of flood disasters.
