Community Calls for Long-Term Solutions to Flood Crisis
Residents of Tudun Wada in Kaduna South Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have raised urgent concerns about the recurring flooding that has plagued their community for over three decades. They are demanding immediate and sustainable actions from both the Kaduna State Government and the Federal Government. Among the key requests include dredging River Kaduna and providing permanent evacuation or relocation options for vulnerable households during flood seasons.
In separate interviews with our correspondent on Saturday, residents emphasized that while emergency relief efforts have been helpful, they only offer temporary relief without addressing the root causes of the ongoing crisis. The community has faced annual floods that displace families, destroy homes, and disrupt livelihoods, creating a cycle of destruction and recovery that shows no signs of ending.
One of the main issues highlighted by the residents is the presence of illegal dumpsites along the riverbank. These dumpsites contribute to blockages and increase health risks, especially during heavy rainfall. Nassim Suleiman, a long-time resident of the area, expressed his frustration, stating that the government must take action to expand the river path and clear the dumpsites. He added, “When the water comes, the refuse from the dumpsites enters our houses. If the river is dredged and the dumpsites are cleared, this suffering will be reduced.”
Fatima Mustapha echoed similar sentiments, noting that the community has been evacuated every year but returns to the same danger. She said, “We are not asking for food or blankets anymore. We want a place where our children can live without fear when it rains.” Her plea reflects the growing desperation among residents who seek a permanent solution rather than temporary relief.
Husseina Liman, another resident, emphasized the need for lasting solutions such as river dredging. She explained that while the government provides food and shelter during emergencies, the lack of long-term measures leaves families unable to replace lost property. “We cannot keep buying new blankets and mattresses every year. Food is our priority and not blankets,” she said.
Government and Emergency Agencies Respond
NEMA’s North West Zonal Director, Sani Lokoja, acknowledged the challenges faced by communities like Tudun Wada and stated that the agency is deepening simulation exercises and advocacy to ensure timely support that reduces disaster risks. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with relevant agencies, including the Kaduna State Government, to mitigate and prevent disaster risks across the country.
Kaduna Red Cross official Tijani Inuwa highlighted the role of effective coordination among emergency responders in 2025. He noted that with the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency and NEMA, they were able to rescue people from their homes and provide necessary aid. “The people taken to the camp stayed for four days and were fed well, while medical personnel attended to the sick,” he said.
Inuwa also recommended the permanent relocation of residents and the dredging of the river to end the yearly suffering. “This problem has lasted over 30 years. The people are used to it, but it should not continue like this,” he added.
National Impact of Flooding
As of November 4, 2025, a total of 433,578 persons had been affected by flooding across 27 states and 123 local government areas of the country, according to NEMA. The data revealed that 144,790 people were displaced, while 241 lives were lost. Additionally, 839 injuries and 115 persons missing were reported nationwide.
The disaster damaged 52,509 houses and destroyed 74,767 hectares of cultivated farmlands, leaving thousands of households without shelter and livelihoods. The demographic breakdown showed that 82,820 men, 133,407 women, 197,566 children, and 19,985 elderly persons were affected. Furthermore, 2,503 persons with disabilities were impacted by the floods.
In Kaduna State, 24,240 persons were affected, and 1,237 were displaced.
