FIC REPORT (OGUN STATE) – The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has commended Ogun State for its high level of preparedness ahead of the 2026 impending floods, urging sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
NEMA gave the commendation during a full-scale flood disaster response simulation exercise held at the Apo River, Owu, Abeokuta.
The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by the Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Usman Bature, said the exercise was designed to test coordination, communication and response capacity.
She noted that the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction and Annual Flood Outlook by NiMet and NIHSA listed 31 states, including Ogun, as high-risk flood-prone states.
“Today, we are simulating a crisis so that we can be better prepared to save lives when a real disaster occurs. Preparedness is key to saving lives,” she stated.
Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said the simulation was timely and would help institutions assess their readiness for flood emergencies.
She added that the state government had already flagged several areas as vulnerable based on the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, disclosed that the state expects intense rainfall of about 360mm in September, which could lead to river and coastal flooding.
He advised residents of Isheri, Arepo, Magboro, Akute, Warewa, parts of Abeokuta, and coastal communities in Ogun Waterside, Ijebu East and Ipokia LGAs to relocate if necessary.
Fish farmers operating along floodplains in Eriwe, Yemule, Ilase and Ayegbami were also urged to harvest their stocks to avoid losses.
The exercise brought together NEMA, SEMA, Red Cross, security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to strengthen disaster response mechanisms in the state.
Sourced by:
Shittu Hammed O
CIO/PRO
FIC, Abeokuta
09/10/2026
