The Federal Government has initiated flood control measures due to the escalating risk of natural disasters in Nigeria. This includes the recent earth tremors experienced in Mpape, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory, along with the impending threat of severe flooding in Southern Nigeria.
In light of this situation, the government has urged state authorities to take prompt and proactive actions to protect communities that are especially at risk from these dangers.
During a ministerial press briefing held on Wednesday in Abuja, Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, revealed that residents in Mpape felt between six to eight tremors late Tuesday night, starting around 11:00 pm.
The primary tremor, which hit at 11:18 pm, registered a magnitude of 3.1 with a focal depth of 11 km, indicating a reactivation of underground fault lines in the region. While Nnaji acknowledged the concerns raised by the tremors, he stressed that the more pressing issue for Nigeria is the potential for extensive flooding in the Southern states, especially as the rainy season progresses.
“We are at a critical juncture. Both natural and human-made factors are combining to increase the risks, and we must be vigilant. The time to act is now,” the minister cautioned.
According to data analyzed by the Centre for Geodesy and Geodynamics, part of the National Space Research and Development Agency, the recent tremors in Mpape were accompanied by various foreshocks and aftershocks. Experts suggest that this indicates a gradual buildup of stress beneath the Earth’s surface, which could lead to more seismic activity in the future.
Nnaji remarked, “The tremors serve as a reminder that Nigeria is not immune to natural disasters, and we must remain prepared.”
The Federal Government’s current focus has shifted towards averting another significant disaster—flooding.
With water levels rising along the River Niger and heavy rainfall expected in the coming weeks, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has previously issued warnings about the risk of severe flooding in many parts of Southern Nigeria.
Flash floods have already affected several states, and if immediate action isn’t taken, the situation is likely to deteriorate further.
“Flooding poses an even greater threat to lives and livelihoods, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas. States must take responsibility and implement all necessary flood control measures,” Nnaji urged. He also noted that the federal government is prepared to assist state governments in strengthening early warning systems and developing infrastructure that can withstand flooding. One of the crucial technologies being utilized for disaster prevention includes Global Navigation Satellite System receiving stations, which monitor deep underground activities.
Mathew Adepoju, the Director General of NASRDA, shared insights on the sidelines of the briefing, commending advancements in space technology that aid in detecting and managing natural disasters.
“We want to assure the public that we are actively monitoring the situation. The government is prepared to take appropriate action to protect the people,” he stated.
In recent years, Nigeria has endured catastrophic floods, displacing thousands and resulting in property damage amounting to billions of naira.
In 2022, major rivers like the Niger and Benue overflowed, inundating communities and agricultural lands. Factors such as poor urban planning, obstructed drainage systems, and climate change have all contributed to this ongoing issue, highlighting the necessity for a coordinated disaster management strategy.
The government’s current initiatives to address these challenges include expanding drainage systems, reinforcing riverbanks, and fostering collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies. Nnaji stressed that state governments must not be complacent. “Disaster preparedness is not just a federal responsibility. States must step up and take the lead in safeguarding their communities,” he asserted.
While the government is prioritizing the prevention of a major flood disaster, it continues to keep a close watch on seismic activity in areas like Mpape.
NASRDA has deployed specialized teams to monitor underground movements and provide real-time data that can help predict future tremors.
The Federal Government is advising citizens living in high-risk areas to stay vigilant and adhere to the guidelines provided by local authorities. Communities are encouraged to avoid flood-prone zones and report any unusual geological activity.
“We are working to keep people safe, but citizens must also play their part by staying informed and prepared,” Nnaji added.
