The Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has reported that floods and windstorms have claimed the lives of 49 people and impacted 266 communities across 27 local government areas in the state between January and August 2024.
During a press briefing in Kano on Wednesday, SEMA’s Executive Secretary, Isyaku Abdullahi-Kubarachi, revealed that the widespread devastation occurred despite early warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), which had identified 14 high-risk flood zones in Kano.
The affected areas include Tudun Wada, Gwale, Wudil, Danbatta, Ajingi, Dala, Gwarzo, Madobi, Bichi, Kano Municipal, Karaye, Tarauni, Minjibir, Bebeji, Rogo, Shanono, Kabo, Garin Malam, Ungogo, Kumbotso, Nasarawa, Kura, Dawakin Kudu, Dawakin Tofa, Gezawa, and Bagwai local government areas.
Abdullahi-Kubarachi detailed the extent of the damage, stating that 6,583 homes were destroyed, affecting 38,814 residents. Additionally, 8,289 farmlands—totaling over 36,000 hectares—were wiped out, with 1,414 people displaced and 139 injured.
In response, SEMA has taken immediate action by visiting the devastated areas to offer relief on behalf of the Kano State Government. The agency has distributed essential relief materials to ease the suffering of the flood victims.
“SEMA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has organized several workshops aimed at curbing environmental hazards, particularly flooding,” the executive secretary said. He also commended Governor Abba Yusuf for providing crucial logistical support to assist those affected by the disaster.
SEMA continues to emphasize the importance of avoiding construction on waterways and urges residents to clear drainage systems to mitigate future floods. Abdullahi-Kubarachi further called on wealthy individuals to lend a hand by providing relief materials to those in need.
He reaffirmed SEMA’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, pledging that the agency will continue its efforts to reduce the impact of environmental disasters in the state.
