The Jigawa State Government is concerned about the possibility of a repeat of the 2020 flooding that affected over 90 percent of the state. In the current 2024 rainy season, 12 out of the 27 local government areas have already experienced flooding.
The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Haruna Mairiga, appealed for urgent assistance from the Federal Government, donor agencies, and philanthropists to prevent further flooding that could ravage numerous communities in these 12 local government areas.
Addressing journalists on Thursday, he emphasized that the current flood incidents in parts of the state make it imperative to take action to avoid a disaster similar to the one that affected over 90 percent of the state in 2020.
The Executive Secretary reported that between August 1st and 13th, 2024, the state witnessed several flood incidents, leading to the deaths of 16 people in a boat mishap and the destruction of farmlands and houses, with the full extent of the damage still being assessed.
“As predicted by NIMET, NIHSA, and NEMA, we have been experiencing flood incidents in various parts of the state since late July 2024, resulting in the loss of lives and property. Several people have been displaced from their homes,” he said.
He noted that the affected local government areas include Buji, Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Hadejia, Birniwa, Malam Madori, Garki, Taura, Gwaram, and Dutse.
He added, “The alarming thing is that this is happening as we reach the peak of the rainy season. Only Allah knows what these areas and others like them will face in the coming days.”
The Jigawa State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Mal. Umar Namadi, is doing a lot to protect and sustain the livelihoods of its citizens. However, when disaster strikes, all hands must be on deck to support the government’s efforts.
“It is crucial that we start soliciting urgent humanitarian support to assist internally displaced persons with either food or non-food items, to help them during this trying time and to rehabilitate them back to their homes when the floodwaters recede,” he added.
The Executive Secretary revealed that the Agency has provided palliative items to the affected communities, including Kagarko, Garki, Gantsa, Bulungu, Gwadayi, Taura, and Nahuce.
He added that the donated items included foodstuffs, rubber mats, blankets, mosquito nets, and cash, among other essentials.
