NEMA strengthens partnership with NIHSA on flood early warning and preparedness

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ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reinforced its collaboration with the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) to improve flood early warning systems and preparedness measures across Nigeria.

During a working visit to NIHSA headquarters in Abuja, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, emphasized the importance of closer inter-agency cooperation in tackling climate-induced disasters. She highlighted the need for timely release of hydrological forecast data, effective dissemination of early warnings, and coordinated preparedness actions to mitigate the impact of flooding.

Mrs. Umar underscored the role of continuous technical engagement through a strategic flood early warning platform, noting that proactive disaster management and anticipatory action are critical to reducing risks. “Enhanced synergy between NEMA and NIHSA will strengthen national efforts toward risk-informed flood preparedness, coordinated response planning, and building resilient communities,” she said.

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She further pointed to NEMA’s ongoing initiatives following the release of the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction and the Annual Flood Outlook. According to her, the agency has been engaging stakeholders at both national and sub-national levels to drive preparedness actions and early mitigation measures in flood-prone communities.

Responding, NIHSA’s Director General, Mr. Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, welcomed the partnership and reaffirmed NIHSA’s commitment to providing timely hydrological data and technical support. He stressed that strengthened institutional collaboration is vital to reducing the impact of flooding and other water-related disasters across vulnerable communities.

The renewed partnership between NEMA and NIHSA comes at a time when Nigeria faces increasing climate-related challenges, with floods posing significant risks to lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. Both agencies pledged to sustain proactive measures, ensuring that communities are better informed, prepared, and protected against future disasters.

This collaboration reflects a broader national strategy to integrate science, data, and community engagement into disaster risk reduction, reinforcing Nigeria’s resilience in the face of climate change.