Amid worsening floods across Nigeria, stakeholders have called for stronger community participation in disaster prevention and response.

At events in Lagos, Kaduna, Niger, and Borno states, experts and civil society groups urged authorities to prioritize anticipatory action such as early warnings, drainage maintenance, and evacuation planning rather than reactive emergency relief.

In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, speaking at World Habitat Day 2025, described flooding as a “persistent urban challenge” requiring joint efforts from government, developers, and residents.

In Kaduna, agencies and journalists received training on effective crisis communication to ensure timely and accurate flood alerts. The Northern Christian Youth Professionals in Niger State also called for grassroots sensitization and better preparedness in vulnerable areas.

Similarly, SOS Children’s Villages organized a town hall in Borno to involve community leaders, women, and youth in post-flood recovery efforts, while NEMA launched its 2025 preparedness campaign in Nasarawa, emphasizing local engagement.

Experts agree that stronger collaboration between authorities and communities will save lives and reduce losses as floods continue to threaten many parts of the country.