The Yobe State Government has rolled out an extensive 2025 Flood Disaster Response and Preparedness Plan aimed at safeguarding communities from the impact of seasonal flooding across the state.
Addressing journalists in Damaturu on Monday, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Mohammed Goje, said the state’s approach is anchored on government leadership, strong partnerships, and proactive preparedness.
He explained that under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, the state has consistently prioritized emergency response, mobilizing resources quickly and coordinating interventions that protect lives and livelihoods.
“Within hours of the Potiskum flash flood in August, which displaced over 1,200 households, the government activated wet feeding, temporary shelters, medical support, and relief distribution,” Dr. Goje said. He added that similar interventions were launched in Nangere, where nearly 3,000 people were affected.
According to him, the government’s strategy goes beyond immediate relief to include long-term preparedness. The 2025 plan targets over 126,000 households 468,000 individuals across high-risk LGAs, with contingency provisions for nearly 16,000 potentially displaced persons.
Dr. Goje also commended the contributions of MDAs, federal agencies, development partners, humanitarian organizations, civil society, and community volunteers. “No single government can respond alone. The sacrifices of our partners and volunteers remain at the heart of saving lives,” he said.
He urged communities to remain vigilant, heed early warnings, and support government efforts to minimize risks. “Flood resilience is a collective responsibility. By standing united, we can not only respond effectively when disasters strike but also build safer, stronger, and more resilient communities,” he added.
On behalf of Governor Buni, the SEMA boss reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to leaving no community behind in disaster response and preparedness.
