In a strategic and proactive response to the 2025 Seasonal Flood Outlook, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) have entered into a collaborative effort aimed at mitigating the anticipated impact of flooding in high-risk communities across Sokoto State.
As part of this joint initiative, the Sokoto Operations Office (SOO) of NEMA participated in a flood sensitization and awareness campaign organized by NIWA on Thursday, July 31st, at Kwalkalawa community—located near Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. The program specifically targeted residents of riparian and riverine communities who are most vulnerable to the forecasted floods.
The sensitization campaign is part of a wider strategy to empower communities with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective disaster preparedness. It also aims to foster behavioral change and local ownership of flood risk reduction practices, particularly in areas where seasonal floods have historically displaced families and disrupted livelihoods.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Operations for NEMA’s Sokoto Operations Office, Mr. Aliyu Shehu, commended NIWA for spearheading the outreach program and reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to strategic partnerships that place communities at the center of disaster risk management. Mr. Shehu, who was represented by the Head of the Search and Rescue Unit, Mr. Aminu S. Ambursa, emphasized the timeliness and relevance of the initiative.
“Our collaboration with NIWA underscores the urgency of early warning and early action. Public sensitization remains one of the most effective ways to reduce vulnerability and loss of lives during flood emergencies. It is not enough to forecast floods; we must take action that prepares and protects communities before disaster strikes,” he stated.
He further urged residents to take flood predictions seriously, noting that proactive steps—such as relocating from floodplains, clearing blocked waterways, and obeying safety advisories—can significantly reduce risks and prevent avoidable tragedies.
A notable highlight of the event was a practical demonstration on the proper use of life jackets, designed to improve safety awareness among boat users and riverine commuters. Following the session, dozens of life jackets were distributed to local residents, particularly fishermen and waterway users, to promote a culture of personal safety and preparedness in flood-prone areas.
NIWA representatives present at the program emphasized the importance of community collaboration, stressing that water transportation should be safe, regulated, and backed by proper equipment—especially during the rainy season when river currents are stronger and more unpredictable.
The flood sensitization campaign in Sokoto is one of several ongoing efforts under NEMA’s national preparedness framework, which involves working closely with federal agencies, state governments, and community leaders to deliver timely, localized risk communication. The goal is to increase flood literacy and encourage practical steps that reduce exposure and enhance resilience in the face of climate-induced disasters.
With forecasts predicting above-normal rainfall and possible overflow of inland waterways, NEMA and NIWA’s joint action in Sokoto demonstrates the critical role of inter-agency collaboration and community engagement in tackling environmental emergencies.
The agencies reiterated their call for continued vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting of early warning signs. As the rainy season progresses, efforts like this are expected to reduce the scale of human and economic losses while fostering a more informed, prepared, and safer population in vulnerable regions.
July 31, 2025
