Orion Reports

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has ordered the removal of buildings obstructing natural waterways as part of urgent measures to tackle flooding in the state. The directive came after the governor inspected flood affected communities in Uyo, where he also gave relevant ministries, agencies, consultants and contractors one week to review the state's drainage master plan and submit both immediate and long term solutions. Governor Eno said affected property owners would be engaged and compensated where necessary before any demolition is carried out. He expressed sympathy for residents affected by the flooding, commended emergency responders for their swift intervention, and urged citizens to keep drains and waterways free of refuse to reduce the impact of heavy rainfall. Credit: Umo Eno/Facebook.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has issued a fresh nationwide flood warning, calling on residents in flood prone communities to relocate to safer areas as heavy rains continue across Nigeria. Director General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar , cautioned that ignoring early warning signs could lead to avoidable deaths, injuries and extensive destruction of homes and property. The agency advised Nigerians to keep track of official weather updates, avoid crossing flooded roads, refrain from dumping refuse in drainage channels, and promptly report flood related emergencies. NEMA said it has activated its emergency structures nationwide, directing its zonal offices to step up public sensitisation, strengthen collaboration with state authorities and traditional institutions, and remain on standby for search and rescue operations. The latest advisory follows renewed flood risk alerts from government agencies ahead of the peak of the rainy season. Credit: Sahara Reporte...