Severe flooding in Nigeria’s northeastern regions has resulted in the deaths of at least 49 people and the displacement of thousands, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). The states of Jigawa, Adamawa, and Taraba have been particularly hard hit, with 41,344 people forced to leave their homes due to rising waters. This disaster comes as Nigeria is just entering the peak of the rainy season, which typically brings more intense rainfall, especially in the northern regions.
The floods have caused significant damage to farmlands, destroying around 693 hectares (1,712 acres) of agricultural land. This destruction is particularly concerning as Nigeria is already struggling with double-digit inflation, driven largely by high food prices. The farming sector in the northeast has been further compromised by repeated attacks from armed groups, forcing many farmers to abandon their land.
Officials are bracing for more severe flooding as the rainy season progresses, with heavier rains expected in September and October. Despite efforts by the government, including the construction of 110 km (68 miles) of barriers, the floods continue to claim lives and damage property, putting further strain on resources meant for development. NEMA has also expressed concern about the potential impact of high water levels in the upper reaches of the River Niger, which are flowing towards Nigeria and could exacerbate the flooding situation.
