Flood in 10 States: Cholera outbreak may escalate, Gov’t warns

The Federal Government has issued a grave warning that the recent floods across 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) may escalate the ongoing cholera outbreak, posing a significant public health risk.

The nation had been battling cholera outbreak, with reports in June stating that over 60 persons had died across 33 states in the Federal Republic.

The warning of escalation came during a briefing in Abuja on Thursday in the presence of Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr Joseph Utserv, alongside Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Goronyo, and the Director General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

“The torrential downpour has triggered flash and urban floods, exacerbated by blocked drainage systems,” stated Engr Utserv.

“This has led to significant displacement of residents and substantial property damage.

“In addition to the immediate impact on communities, the flooding poses risks of escalating the cholera outbreak, which has already claimed lives and affected thousands,” emphasized the minister.

PlanetPulse.NG had reported the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) presented by NIHSA earlier this year, 148 LGAs across 31 states were identified as high flood risk areas.

Alas, the ongoing flooding has confirmed the accuracy of these predictions, affecting states like Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Lagos, and others.

The Minister further emphasized the upcoming challenges, stating, “River flooding is expected to begin this month in states located within the Niger Basin. States like Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Delta, and others are advised to prepare for potential inundation.”

The government has thus urged proactive measures, including clearing blocked drainage systems, relocating vulnerable communities, and enhancing flood resilience through infrastructure improvements.

The Minister reiterated that efforts were already underway to monitor dam operations and upstream river conditions closely to mitigate further risks.

Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has identified specific LGAs in Anambra State at high risk and called for collaborative efforts to mitigate potential disasters during the rainy season.