Windstorms in Jigawa State kill seven, displace over 5,400 residents

Hannafi Yakubu, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Relief Management Agency SEMA, described the incident as the most severe disaster currently confronting the state. The windstorms, which occurred shortly after the start of the rainy season, destroyed residential buildings and damaged public facilities including 50 schools and health facilities, as well as two police stations. While widespread flooding has not yet occurred, the windstorms have caused extensive damage.

SEMA is collaborating with the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA to assess the destruction and coordinate relief efforts. Yakubu appealed for support from various stakeholders, including the Federal Government, local governments, development partners, humanitarian organizations, corporate bodies, and individuals. The Jigawa State Government has approved over N800 million for emergency preparedness and the procurement of relief materials.

The local government areas most affected include Ringim, Dutse, Babura, Kirikasamma, and Birnin Kudu. An isolated flooding incident in Miga Local Government Area destroyed over 70 hectares of farmland. The state government affirmed its commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and providing assistance to affected communities.