The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has issued a warning to residents to prepare for potential flooding later this year.
This announcement was made by Sir James Iorpuu, the Acting Executive Secretary of SEMA, during the monthly distribution of food and non-food items to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across the state.
Sir James Iorpuu referred to recent alerts from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), which identified Benue State as one of the areas at high risk for flooding this year.
“This forecast is a crucial reminder of the significant challenges that our people may face in the coming days,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for residents, including various stakeholders, government agencies, and the international community, to stay vigilant and work together to find lasting solutions to the recurring issue of flooding in the region.
“I urge everyone to remain alert and continue our collaborative efforts to mitigate the impact of floods,” Iorpuu said.
Iorpuu also expressed a prayerful hope that the anticipated flooding would not severely affect the people of Benue State.
He noted that although the state experienced minimal flooding in some communities last year, the water volume exceeded that of 2022 and led to significant flooding in many parts of the state, including the Makurdi metropolis.
Additionally, Iorpuu commended United Nations agencies for their ongoing support and invaluable contributions toward improving the living conditions of IDPs in Benue State.
He acknowledged their relentless efforts and the critical role they play in assisting the state’s flood response and recovery initiatives.
Sir James Iorpuu’s call to action highlights the importance of preparedness, cooperation, and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
His remarks serve as a reminder that proactive measures and sustained support from all sectors are essential to effectively manage and reduce the adverse impacts of flooding on the communities in Benue State.
