NEMA Alerts Anambra Riverine Communities As River Niger Water Level Rises
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged residents of riverine and flood-prone communities in Anambra State to remain vigilant and prepare to move to safer, higher ground as the water level of the River Niger continues to rise.
The warning was issued following a monitoring exercise conducted by NEMA in collaboration with the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society to assess the River Niger’s current water level and evaluate the potential risk of flooding across vulnerable communities.
During the exercise on Friday, the team visited the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) facility in Onitsha, where officials inspected the river’s water gauge as part of efforts to monitor changing conditions and strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
Priscilla Madukwe, Head of NEMA’s Enugu Operations Office, who led the monitoring exercise, said the water level was gradually increasing but remained within safe limits at the time of the assessment.
Madukwe, however, urged residents and relevant stakeholders not to become complacent, stressing the importance of continuous monitoring and early preparedness, particularly in communities located close to the River Niger.
She advised residents to avoid activities that could increase their exposure to flooding and to remain informed through official channels for updates from emergency management authorities.
According to her, regular monitoring of the river gauge is critical because early information about rising water levels enables emergency responders to identify potential threats and mobilise resources before the situation deteriorates.
Madukwe specifically appealed to residents of riverine and flood-prone communities to remain prepared to relocate to safer locations if necessary, warning against waiting until floodwaters reach their homes before taking precautionary measures.
She noted that early preparedness could significantly reduce the impact of flooding and help communities respond more effectively should water levels rise beyond established safety thresholds.
The NEMA official added that information gathered during the monitoring exercise would assist NEMA, SEMA, the Nigerian Red Cross Society and other relevant stakeholders in reviewing preparedness strategies and making timely decisions if the situation changes.
She called on residents to remain calm but vigilant, cooperate with emergency officials and take all necessary precautions, assuring the public that relevant agencies would continue to closely monitor the River Niger and provide updates on any significant developments.
