An environmental expert, Dr Babagana Boso, has called on stakeholders in Yobe to take urgent action to mitigate flood risks as the rainy season approaches.
Boso, who works in the Department of Geography and Environmental Management, Yobe State University, made the call at a six-day workshop on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS).
The workshop was organised by Plan International, with support from the Zurich Foundation.
Boso highlighted global warming and climate change as key factors contributing to extreme weather events, such as increased rainfall intensity in West Africa.
“Global warming trends indicate a 1.1°C increase since pre-industrial times, and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projects increased rainfall intensity in this region,” he said.
Boso also outlined local causes of increased flooding in Yobe, including deforestation, poor land management, and rapid urbanisation.
He added that the loss of vegetation cover and unsustainable agricultural practices exacerbate flood risks.
“Increased impermeable surfaces and inadequate drainage systems in urban areas further worsen the situation,” Boso added.
The environmental expert highlighted the severe impact of flooding on communities, which includes displacement, loss of homes and livelihoods, and agricultural damage.
Additionally, flooding results in the destruction of critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals.
“The socio-economic consequences of flooding are dire.
“Food insecurity arises due to crop and livestock losses, poverty worsens due to the loss of livelihoods, and there is an increased burden of diseases and malnutrition,” Boso said.
He urged government agencies, environmental organisations, and local communities to implement proactive measures to mitigate flooding.
Boso said some of the measures to include afforestation programmes, improved land-use planning, and the construction of proper drainage systems.
Stakeholders at the workshop emphasised the need for a multi-sectoral approach to address the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events in Yobe.
By Ahmed Abba