Notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, has urged governments, community leaders, and residents of the Orashi River basin to take immediate proactive steps following the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet’s, flood prediction for 2026.
In its latest seasonal climate outlook, NiMet listed Lagos and more than 20 other states, including Rivers State, as areas most likely to experience heavy flooding this year. The Apex Niger Delta socio-cultural group says the warning demands urgent action to protect lives, property, and livelihoods.
Reacting to the NiMet report on Monday, July 6, 2026, ONC President General, Ambassador Comrade Emeni Ibe, JP, AP, said the prediction should trigger emergency preparedness across the region.
“The ONC, as part of critical stakeholders, wishes to express genuine concerns about the impending flooding to be witnessed in many states across the country,” Amb. Ibe stated.
He noted that the Orashi region’s geography makes it especially vulnerable: “We are particularly worried because our area is very close to the coastline and will most likely be affected by heavy flooding. We are using this opportunity to call on community and youth leaders to sensitize our people on the need to make efforts on how to contain the impact of the flooding on human and material resources.”
ONC charged local leaders to mobilize residents before the rains intensify. Specific actions recommended include:
1. *Clear waterways and drainage*: “The ONC therefore charges community and youth leaders to mobilize our people to clear waterways, gutters and all drainage channels to forestall any form of negative impacts.”
2. *Public sensitization*: Leaders should engage town criers in all villages and towns “to enlighten the people properly about the impending flooding as predicted by Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet.”
3. *Early sensitization on safety* Residents in low-lying areas and riverine communities were advised to identify higher ground, safeguard documents, and prepare emergency kits.
The Congress also appealed to federal, state, and local governments, as well as development partners, to intervene early rather than respond after disaster strikes.
“We are equally calling on the Government and Non-Governmental Organizations to make efforts at assisting the communities now and not when the rains come heavily,” Amb. Ibe said.
He urged NEMA, SEMA, and the Ministry of Environment to pre-position relief materials, boats, and medical supplies in Abua/Odual, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, and ONELGA — the four LGAs that make up the Orashi region.
As the umbrella body for Orashi communities, ONC says it will monitor compliance by local leaders and continue to engage government agencies to ensure the region is not left behind in flood mitigation planning.