Residents of Kebbi State have been warned to brace for possible flooding and other extreme weather conditions as the 2026 rainy season approaches.
The warning was issued by the National Emergency Management Agency through its Sokoto Operations Office following forecasts contained in the 2026 Seasonal Climqate Prediction by Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook released by Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency.
In a statement released on Friday in Birnin Kebbi and signed by the Head of NEMA Sokoto Operations Office, Mr. Tukur Abubakar, the agency disclosed that Kebbi had been listed among states expected to face severe flooding in 2026.
According to the agency, rainfall in the state is projected to be heavier than what was experienced during the 2025 rainy season, raising concerns over flash floods in many communities due to intense and prolonged downpours.
“NEMA wishes to alert the people of Kebbi State to the impending flood risks and other weather-related hazards predicted for the 2026 rainy season.
“Kebbi State has been classified among the high flood-risk states in Nigeria for 2026 and is projected to experience flooding under high, medium, and low-risk categories across various communities and locations within the state,” the statement read in part.
The agency also cautioned residents about possible windstorms expected at the beginning of the rainy season. It encouraged communities, institutions, and environmental groups to step up tree planting campaigns and other environmental protection measures aimed at reducing erosion and storm damage.
Communities located along riverbanks and low-lying farming areas around the Kebbi River system were advised to stay alert and obey all flood warnings and evacuation notices issued by authorities.
NEMA identified the July, August, and September period as the peak flood season in the state, warning that rising water levels could cause the Kebbi River to overflow, submerging farmlands, riverside settlements, and key infrastructure.
The agency added that flooding could continue into October and November as water levels may remain high for an extended period in affected areas.
It further revealed that about 97 road sections across the state were vulnerable to flooding during the rainy season. Motorists and commuters were urged to drive carefully as floodwaters might hide potholes, damaged bridges, and washed-out sections of roads, increasing the chances of accidents and transport disruptions.
Apart from flooding, the agency warned that Kebbi could also experience a prolonged dry spell of about 21 days between June and August 2026, a development expected to negatively affect farming activities and crop yields.
Farmers were encouraged to adopt climate-smart farming methods, including planting drought-resistant and early-maturing crops to reduce losses.
The Local Government Areas likely to experience the dry spell include Arewa, Dandi, Aleiro, Kalgo, Bunza, Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, Augie, Jega, and Maiyama.
NEMA also advised residents to regularly clear drainages and waterways, avoid dumping refuse indiscriminately, relocate from flood-prone areas, and stop building structures on waterways and floodplains.
Households were encouraged to prepare emergency supplies such as food, clean water, medications, and important documents. Residents were also advised to switch off electricity and properly secure their homes before evacuating in order to avoid accidents and electrocution.
The agency urged communities to promptly report early signs of flooding to community leaders and Local Government Emergency Committees while also investing in preventive measures such as sandbags, embankments, and improved drainage systems.
NEMA reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with the state government, local authorities, traditional rulers, emergency agencies, and other stakeholders to reduce disaster risks and protect lives and property across the state.
Residents were urged to remain calm, follow official updates, and strictly observe all safety directives throughout the 2026 rainy season.