Flood response in Nigeria ramps up as Yobe relocates victims, Ondo expands drainage, and Sokoto lawmakers seek emergency relief for submerged villages

In Yobe State, authorities have begun the relocation of 250 households in Garin Kolo, Nangere LGA, after floods swept away homes and contaminated water sources.

Also read: Nigeria Flood Alert Sparks Urgent Warning for 9 States

Governor Mai Mala Buni directed the operation, with the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) leading the charge.

“This exercise ensures safety, dignity, and hope for recovery,” said Dr. Mohammed Goje, Executive Secretary of YOSEMA.

The state has erected 22 temporary shelters, with more under construction, and installed a water reservoir, emergency toilets, and medical services backed by police and NSCDC security personnel.

In a separate effort, YOSEMA and NEMA launched food relief operations for 518 households in Potiskum, delivering rice, beans, pasta, oil, and other essentials across eight flood-affected communities.

In Ondo State, flood prevention measures are ramping up with the expansion of drainage canals across all 18 LGAs.

During a site inspection in Akure, Special Adviser on Erosion Control Elisha Ebijimi said the government had upgraded canals from  4 metres to 25 metres wide, supported by World Bank funding.

“We promised Ondo residents an end to flooding.

But they must stop dumping refuse in the drains,” Ebijimi warned.

The project has already covered Ilaje, Ese Odo, Odigbo, and Ile Oluji, with Oba-Ile in Akure North marked as the next priority zone.

In Sokoto State, the House of Assembly passed a resolution calling for immediate diversion of floodwaters in Sabon Birni LGA, where five villages were submerged along River Rima.

Lawmakers Alhaji Al-Mustapha Aminu and Alhaji Sa’idu Ibrahim revealed that flooding has cut off the Goronyo–Sabon Birni road, paralyzing transportation and response efforts.

Affected communities include Makuwana, Dangawo, Faru Kumbula, Infaruna, and Magajin Dawaki, The Assembly also urged NEMA and SEMA to deploy emergency supplies to affected households.

Also read: Rivers State Emergency Management Agency to Boost Flood Safety

In related developments, Sokoto lawmakers also approved the upgrade of Amanawa Infectious Diseases Hospital, which will include new wards, paediatric units, access roads, and medical equipment—part of broader efforts to improve resilience and public health infrastructure amid climate-related emergencies.