By Newspot Nigeria Staff Writer
Umuahia, Abia State — The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a critical flood warning to residents of Abia State, urging immediate relocation from identified high-risk zones ahead of anticipated heavy and above-normal rainfall.
The alert, released Friday by Abia State NSCDC Commandant, Dr. Akinsola Aderemi, followed new climate risk projections from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). Both agencies forecast severe flooding in multiple states, including several parts of Abia.
In the statement signed by DSC Doreen Udugwu, the NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer, nine local government areas (LGAs) were marked as most vulnerable. These include:
Aba North, Aba South, Ukwa East, Ukwa West, Umuahia North, Obingwa, Ugwunagbo, Isiala Ngwa North, and Osisioma Ngwa.
“We are calling on all residents in vulnerable areas to relocate immediately. The risks are real, and preparedness can save lives,” said Commandant Aderemi. “Our officers are on the ground and ready to assist in both evacuation and community awareness programs.”
He confirmed that the NSCDC’s Disaster Management Unit has been mobilized across all 17 LGAs in collaboration with local authorities to intensify community sensitization and emergency response readiness.
In swift response to the development, the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) threw its weight behind the alert, calling on citizens and the Abia State Government to respond with urgency.
FENRAD’s Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, called on the government to activate emergency shelters, clear blocked drainage systems, and enhance local-level warning systems.
“Floods are no longer seasonal surprises; they are predictable disasters. What’s needed now is not just awareness, but action. Communities must prepare, and the government must lead with urgency and empathy,” Nwafor emphasized.
FENRAD also encouraged residents to stay informed via official communication channels, avoid waterways during heavy downpours, and report rising water levels promptly. The group appealed to traditional rulers, religious institutions, and media outlets to help amplify flood preparedness messages and foster communal resilience.
As the flood season intensifies, Newspot Nigeria urges readers in the listed areas and across the state to heed official guidance and prioritize safety above all else.
FULL STATEMENT BELOW:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 4, 2025
NSCDC Warns of Imminent Flood Threats in Abia State; FENRAD Urges Preparedness and Early Response
Umuahia, Abia State – The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a high-alert warning to residents of flood-prone areas in Abia State, urging immediate relocation ahead of forecasted heavy flooding. The warning follows recent predictions from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) indicating above-normal rainfall and flood risk across key local government areas in the state.
In a statement released Friday by the Abia State Commandant of NSCDC, Dr. Akinsola Aderemi, and signed by the Public Relations Officer, DSC Doreen Udugwu, the Corps listed nine high-risk LGAs, including Aba North, Aba South, Ukwa East, Ukwa West, Umuahia North, Obingwa, Ugwunagbo, Isiala Ngwa North, and Osisioma Ngwa.
Commandant Aderemi emphasized that the NSCDC has activated its Disaster Management Unit, in collaboration with local government stakeholders, to begin mass sensitization and community outreach across all 17 LGAs in the state.
“We are calling on all residents in vulnerable areas to relocate immediately. The risks are real, and preparedness can save lives,” Aderemi warned. “Our officers are on the ground and ready to assist in both evacuation and community awareness programs.”
In response to the NSCDC’s alert, the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has reinforced the call for early preparedness, public education, and institutional coordination to mitigate the expected impact of the floods.
FENRAD Executive Director, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, stressed the need for a multi-agency response and urged the Abia State Government to activate emergency shelters, clear blocked drainages, and issue early warning signals at the community level.
“Floods are no longer seasonal surprises; they are predictable disasters. What’s needed now is not just awareness, but action. Communities must prepare, and the government must lead with urgency and empathy,” Nwafor stated.
FENRAD further encouraged residents to monitor official updates, avoid waterways during heavy rains, and report unusual water levels to local authorities.
FENRAD reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and property while calling on citizens, traditional rulers, religious institutions, and media to support flood preparedness efforts.
Signed:
Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor
Executive Director, FENRAD Nigeria
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This report is by Newspot Nigeria.
