Jigawa State Government Seeks Urgent Aid Amidst Flood Threat

The potential for another flood similar to the one that affected more than 90% of Jigawa State in 2020 is causing concern for the state government. During the current 2024 rainy season, twelve of the twenty-seven local government areas have already experienced flooding.

Dr. Haruna Mairiga, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has appealed to the Federal Government, donor agencies, and philanthropists for immediate aid to prevent further floods that could devastate many towns in these 12 local government areas.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Dr. Mairiga emphasized the urgent need for action to avoid a disaster like the one that struck in 2020. He reported multiple flood incidents in the state between August 1st and August 13th, 2024, resulting in 16 deaths from a boat accident and significant damage to homes and farmlands. The full extent of the damage is 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 stated.

Dr. Mairiga identified the affected local government areas as 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."

Under the leadership of His Excellency, Mal. Umar Namadi, the Jigawa State Government is making significant efforts to protect and sustain the livelihoods of its people. However, when calamity strikes, collective support is essential.

"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," Dr. Mairiga added.

The Executive Secretary disclosed that the affected communities, including Kagarko, Garki, Gantsa, Bulungu, Gwadayi, Taura, and Nahuce, have received palliative items from the Agency. The distributed goods included food, blankets, rubber mats, cash, and mosquito nets, among other necessities.