In the wake of recurrent flooding affecting several communities across Nigeria, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has once again urged citizens to desist from activities that may lead to blockage of drainages and water ways to avoid worsening the situation.
Director General of NOA, Garba Abari who made this known in Abuja also said the State Directorate and Local Government formations of the Agency had been directed to commence massive sensitization to mobilize Nigerians away from flood prone areas, thereby minimizing casualties. In addition, he said advocacy visits to opinion leaders, faith based and civil society organizations will be initiated along with other measures toward encouraging Nigerians to depart from harm’s way.
Recalling a recent update report issued by Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Abari noted that the high rainfall intensity and run-off has led to an increasing trend in the flow level of rivers across the country. “All citizens living along the waterways and lowlands should relocate to upland areas. Farmers who planted near the rivers should also harvest their products to avert the rampaging effects of flooding”, said the NOA boss.
It will be recalled that NOA had in June 2016 alerted Nigerians of imminent flooding, calling on residents of river banks and flood paths to relocate as a precautionary measure.