Stronger Preparedness as Adamawa Braces for High Flood Risk
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has moved to tighten Adamawa State’s flood response strategy, reaffirming a stronger partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) as authorities brace for another high-risk rainy season.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday at the Government House, Yola, while receiving the Director-General of NEMA, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, ahead of the official flag-off of the 2026 National Flood Awareness Campaign.
He made it clear that flooding is no longer a seasonal inconvenience but a recurring threat with real consequences lives lost, homes destroyed, and communities displaced.
Governor Fintiri described NEMA’s decision to include Adamawa among focal states for the campaign as both strategic and long overdue, given the state’s vulnerability.
Reflecting on the devastation recorded in previous years, he said his administration is no longer reacting to disasters but preparing ahead of them. He outlined measures already in motion, including strict monthly environmental sanitation, aggressive clearing of drainages, and continuous sensitisation of residents in high-risk areas to move to safer locations.
The governor also disclosed plans to establish temporary shelters to accommodate displaced persons if flooding occurs, while pushing for stronger federal support to cushion the impact on affected communities.
He stressed that tackling flooding cannot be left to government alone, calling for coordinated action involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to reduce risks and prevent avoidable losses.
Earlier, NEMA Director-General Hajiya Zubaida Umar said the visit signals the commencement of nationwide activities for the 2026 flood awareness campaign, aimed at improving public understanding of flood risks and strengthening preparedness.
She revealed that projections by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency indicate that no fewer than 33 states are at risk of flooding this year, with Adamawa listed among the most vulnerable.
According to her, NEMA has stepped up its response framework through early warning systems, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and widespread public enlightenment in response to rising climate-related threats.
She commended Governor Fintiri for maintaining a functional working relationship with the agency and urged traditional institutions and community leaders to take flood warnings seriously and drive awareness at the grassroots.
The visit peaked with the presentation of an award to Governor Fintiri in recognition of his administration’s commitment to flood management and environmental resilience in Adamawa State.
Officials of the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA), led by its Director, Ladabi David Ayuba, alongside other key stakeholders, were also in attendance.