In the community of Cheledi located in Kirfi Local Government Area, Bauchi State resides Maryam Ladan, who shares her harrowing experience of the 2022 floods that ravaged her home and livelihood. In her words, “It all began on a fateful Thursday when the flooding started gradually,” Maryam narrates, her voice laced with sadness. “At first, we didn’t think it would be anything serious. However, to our surprise, the flood grew beyond our imagination.” The floodwaters mercilessly swept through Maryam’s village, submerging homes, farms, and everything in their path. “Eventually, our home was submerged,” Maryam recalls. “Two days later, another heavy flood struck, taking away our properties, our farm, and even the chickens belonging to people in the community.” Maryam’s husband, a farmer, was not spared from the devastation. “All his crops were submerged, resulting in a financial loss for us,” Maryam says, her voice trembling. The couple’s hopes were dashed as their means of sustenance were stolen away by the relentless flood. Despite warnings about heavy rainfall, Maryam and her fellow villagers were left to grapple with the aftermath of the disaster. “We had nowhere else to go,” Maryam laments. “All we could do was pray it wouldn’t cause any destruction.” The floods left Maryam and her community struggling to recover. “The governor visited our community and promised to provide assistance,” Maryam recalls, a glimmer of hope flickering in her eyes. “However, despite the assurance, nothing was done, and we received no shelter or support from anyone.” Maryam’s story is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change on vulnerable communities around the world. The floods of 2022 left her and her fellow villagers displaced, heartbroken, and struggling to rebuild their lives. As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, Maryam’s story serves as a poignant call to action, urging us to take heed of the warnings and work towards a more resilient and sustainable future.  

      Agaie community, a traditional emirate in Niger States lies at the intersection of roads from Bida and Lapai. The community is a market centre where farm products such as rice, millet, cotton, groundnuts, etc. are traded. Jonathan Saidu, a seasoned farmer in the community stood on his once fertile farmland, now a desolate expanse of barren earth. In his narration, he mentioned that the heavy floods of the past season had wreaked havoc, sweeping away his crops and leaving behind a trail of destruction. Despair gnawed at his heart as he gazed upon the withered remains of his livelihood. Jonathan had always prided himself in his ability to nurture the land and reap bountiful harvests. For years, he had tirelessly worked his fields, providing sustenance for his family and the wider community. However, in recent years, the once-predictable rhythm of the seasons has been disrupted by the relentless grip of climate change. Rainfall patterns had become erratic, alternating between devastating floods and prolonged droughts. The once vibrant soil, now parched and cracked, struggled to support even the hardiest of crops. The recent floods had been particularly harsh, inundating his fields for weeks, leaving behind a thick layer of sediment that choked the life out of the soil. The livestock, once grazing peacefully, had been scattered, some lost to the floodwaters, others struggling to survive on the meagre scraps of remaining vegetation. Jonathan’s heart sank as he surveyed the damage. His crops, the fruits of months of labor, lay ruined, and their potential yield lost to the whims of a changing climate. The once-promising harvest, the lifeblood of his family’s livelihood, had vanished, leaving behind an empty void. The burden of loss weighed heavily on Jonathan’s shoulders. He was not alone in his plight. Many other farmers in Agaie Local Government faced similar challenges, their livelihoods threatened by the unpredictable forces of nature. The community, once self-sufficient in food production, now teetered on the brink of hunger. Despite the overwhelming despair, a flicker of hope remained within Jonathan’s heart. He believed that the government, with its resources and expertise, could step in and offer a lifeline to the struggling farmers. He envisioned irrigation systems that would defy droughts, drought-resistant crops that would thrive in harsh conditions, and financial assistance to help farmers rebuild their shattered livelihoods. With renewed determination, Jonathan joined forces with his fellow farmers, their voices united in a plea for help. They petitioned the government, their voices echoing the desperation of a community on the brink. Their message was clear: climate change had brought them to their knees, but their spirits remained unbroken. They sought not handouts, but opportunities to adapt, to reclaim their role as the guardians of the land. They yearned for knowledge, tools, and the means to navigate the ever-changing climate and continue to nurture the land that had sustained their families for generations. As Jonathan stood amidst the ruins of his once-thriving farm, he envisioned a future where the land would once again yield its bounty. A future where farmers, empowered by knowledge and support, would stand resilient against the challenges of climate change, their hands once again nurturing the land that sustained their community.

Elizabeth Kukighir, a resident of Abuwa, has been battling annual floods that have devastated her rice farm and left her struggling to provide for her family of more than ten. “I lost everything,” she said, her voice heavy with despair. “My rice, my cassava, my corn – everything was gone.” The floods, which have become increasingly frequent in recent years, have left Elizabeth and her family with no means of sustenance. “We have no way of catering for ourselves,” she explained. Despite the repeated losses, Elizabeth and her fellow villagers have been left to fend for themselves. “There is no one to help us,” she said. “No one comes to our aid.” With each flood, the struggle for survival becomes even more difficult. Elizabeth and her family are forced to navigate the treacherous floodwaters to reach their remaining crops. “We enter the mud waters and cross to the other parts,” she said. The journey is not without its hazards. “We get hurt with splinters and other things,” Elizabeth said, her face etched with worry. Elizabeth’s story is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change on communities around the world. As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events increase, so does the vulnerability of those who depend on the land for their livelihoods. The government has a responsibility to support communities like Abuwa in the face of these challenges. By investing in flood control measures and providing assistance to those affected by floods, the government can help alleviate the suffering of those who are most vulnerable.

The community of Gidan Madi, is a testament to human resilience against the relentless forces of nature. However, beneath its tranquil façade lies a stark reality – a community teetering on the brink of imbalance. Auwalu Musa, a lifelong resident of Gidan Madi, has witnessed first-hand the community’s battle against the annual floods that have become an unwelcome companion. “The flooding has been a constant threat,” he shares, voice tinged with a mix of defiance. In 2022, the floods reached unprecedented heights, unleashing a torrent of destruction that left no stone unturned. Homes were engulfed, livelihoods washed away, and dreams shattered. Musa’s home, once a haven of warmth and laughter, was reduced to a desolate ruin, its foundations submerged beneath the churning waters. “The flood of 2022 was a nightmare,” Musa recalls, his eyes clouded with the memory of that catastrophic night. “It felt like the very earth beneath our feet was crumbling.” The aftermath of the flood has been a relentless struggle for survival. Homes lie in ruins, crops are destroyed, and the community’s spirit is broken. The once vibrant Gidan Madi is now a shadow of itself, its inhabitants grappling with the harsh realities of displacement and despair. “…the community has not experienced such a flood in sixty years. We are desperate for help, “We need the government to step in, to provide us with the resources and support we need to rebuild our lives.” Musa seeks that the government mobilises resources and expertise to help them rise from the ashes of disaster and reclaim their rightful place in society. This story is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities in the face of climate change. The intensifying weather patterns, exacerbated by human actions, are creating an environment that is increasingly hostile to human habitation. The international community has a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with those affected by natural disasters, provide emergency relief, and invest in long-term adaptation strategies, helping communities build resilience and adapt to the changing climate.

Joseph Warri, a fisherman in the Ushafa community of Abuja, has lived in the village for over three decades. He has witnessed the water crisis that has plagued the community for years. In 1985, a dam was constructed in Ushafa to provide water for the entire city of Abuja. However, the villagers themselves have little to no access to this water. The Water Board may only give water for a few days at a time, then for months on end, there is no water at all. The villagers must rely on spring water and well digging to meet their water needs. However, these sources of water are often contaminated and unsafe to drink. people who have the financial means opt for boreholes, but this choice isn’t viable for the majority of the community. The local government chairman has written letters to the FCT minister and other authorities, but nothing has been done to address the water crisis. Joseph’s story is relatable to many people around the world who are facing water insecurity. Climate change is making the problem worse, as it is leading to more extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods. Joseph dreams of a future where the people of Ushafa have access to a clean and reliable water supply. He envisions a future where villagers won’t need to scale rocks for water, and where concerns about their children falling ill from consuming contaminated water will be a thing of the past. His story is one of hope and resilience. It is a story about a community that is fighting for its water rights, even in the face of adversity. He urges the government to commit to and take urgent action to address the water crisis in Ushafa and other communities around the world, To build a future where everyone has access to basic rights to clean water irrespective of their environment and financial status.

Ugochukwu Okonkwo, a villager from Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria, is frustrated. His community has been plagued by erosion for years, and the government seems to have no solution to the problem.  According to him, the community members have written to the government many times, but they have not done anything to help. In his interview, Okonkwo says; “The erosion is getting worse, and we are afraid that our entire community will be washed away” The erosion in Ogidi is caused by a number of factors, including heavy rainfall, deforestation, and poor drainage. The problem has been exacerbated by the construction of new roads and buildings, which have blocked natural waterways. The erosion is having a devastating impact on the community. Houses have been destroyed, farmland has been lost, and people have been displaced. The erosion is also making it difficult for people to access essential services, such as schools and hospitals. Okonkwo is calling on the government to take action to address the erosion problem in Ogidi. He says that the government needs to build drainage channels and plant trees to help prevent soil erosion. He also says that the government needs to provide compensation to people who have been affected by the erosion. “We are tired of living in fear, we want the government to help us solve this problem once and for all”

Amidst the lush communities in the landscapes of Kwara State, Nigeria, lives Saidu Balikisu, Alhaji Usman Abdullahi, Hajarah Muhammad, and Muhammad Dinga. These communities, primarily inhabited by fishermen and farmers, have developed a unique rhythm of life, one that is attuned to the annual floods that disrupt their livelihoods. The floodwaters, while a formidable force of nature, have become an unwelcome yet familiar companion to the residents. “The flood happens every year,” Hajarah Muhammad explains, her voice laced with a mix of resignation and determination. Despite the recurrence of the floods, the community has not succumbed to despair. Instead, they have developed a system of resilience, adapting their lives to the ebb and flow of the waters. “We receive early warnings from the government,” Alhaji Usman Abdullahi notes, a glimmer of appreciation in his eyes. “They also provide us with food and other relief materials.” However, the floods continue to take their toll. “Our rice farms are inundated, and our buildings are damaged,” Saidu Balikisu laments, her voice heavy with concern. The community’s collective appeal is clear: they seek a permanent solution to their annual flood predicament. “We urge the government to close the dams,” Muhammad Dinga pleads, his voice echoing the yearning of his community. Closing the dams, they believe, would effectively prevent the floodwaters from encroaching upon their lands and homes. This, they hope, would allow them to cultivate their fields, ply their trades, and live their lives without the constant threat of displacement and destruction. The community’s call to action is a testament to their resilience and their unwavering belief in a brighter future. They are not asking for handouts but for a sustainable solution that will enable them to thrive, not just survive, amidst the challenges posed by nature. As the government grapples with the complex issue of flood management, the communities of Kwara State stand united in their hope for a future where the floodwaters no longer dictate the rhythm of their lives but where they, the people, are the masters of their own destiny.  

Owolabi Habeeb, a lifelong resident of Agwa Community bears witness to the relentless onslaught of nature’s fury. The once tranquil community, once a haven of peace and harmony, has been transformed into a scene of devastation, with homes reduced to rubble and streets inundated with floodwaters. The 2022 flood, in particular, stands out as a defining moment in the community’s history, a day that forever etched a scar in their collective memory. The floodwaters, laced with chemicals and carrying a foul stench, swept through Agwa Community with unprecedented force, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. “The water was disgusting,” Owolabi recounts, his voice heavy with emotion. “It was mixed with chemicals, causing irritations that damaged our clothes and skin.” The toxic waters, a stark reminder of the environmental degradation that has plagued the region, posed a serious health hazard to the community, further exacerbating their plight. The floods not only destroyed their homes but also displaced a staggering 60% of the residents in Bayelsa State. Owolabi, like many others, was forced to seek refuge with friends and family, finding solace in cramped spaces amidst the chaos and uncertainty. The displacement not only disrupted their lives but also exposed them to a heightened risk of contracting diseases, particularly mosquito-borne illnesses. The lack of adequate sanitation and hygiene facilities further exacerbated the situation, leaving the community vulnerable to the spread of infections. He appeals to the government for urgent assistance, seeking help to rebuild their homes, restore their livelihoods, and protect their health.

The serene village of Imburu, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Nigeria’s Adamawa State, was once a haven of tranquillity. Its inhabitants, predominantly farmers, lived in harmony with nature, their lives guided by the rhythm of the seasons. But in recent years, the tranquillity has been shattered, replaced by the relentless onslaught of floods. One such flood, particularly devastating, transformed Imburu into a scene of utter despair. Homes were swept away, crops were ruined, and livestock perished, leaving the villagers with nothing but the clothes on their backs. The floodwaters, devoured everything in its path, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. Kenugi Audigwadi, a primary school teacher in Imburu, bore witness to the catastrophe. Her heart ached as she saw her students, once brimming with youthful exuberance, now reduced to mere shadows of their former selves, their eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. The flood had claimed the lives of several children, their dreams and aspirations extinguished in the blink of an eye. Audigwadi’s livelihood was not spared. Her farms, once teeming with promise, were now barren wastelands, crops washed away by the merciless floodwaters. The grains she had so meticulously nurtured, the promise of sustenance for her family and for the entire community, were lost forever. The flood’s impact extended beyond the physical destruction. The villagers, once bound by a strong sense of community, were now grappling with the psychological trauma of loss. The elderly, weakened by the ordeal, succumbed to diseases like malaria and typhoid, and their resilience tested beyond their limits. Despite the overwhelming despair, a flicker of hope remained in Audigwadi’s heart. She knew that the Imburu community could not be extinguished by the flood. The villagers, though battered and bruised, possessed an unwavering determination to rebuild their lives, to reclaim their village from the clutches of disaster. Audigwadi, with her unwavering belief in the resilience of her community, has sought assistance from the government, to instill hope in the hearts of her fellow villagers. Although the road to recovery may be long and arduous, the residents of Imburu, remain united by their shared adversity. They rebuilt their homes, replanted their fields, and slowly but surely began to mend the wounds inflicted by the flood. Her story is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the climate crisis that threatens communities worldwide. Audigwadi’s narration is a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable devastation, the human spirit can endure, adapt, and overcome. It is a call to action, urging us to work together to build a more resilient future, one where communities like Imburu are equipped to withstand the impacts of climate change.

Ganaja community bears the scars of a devastating flood that ravaged their homes and livelihoods. Obaka Akume, a resident of Ganaja, recounts the harrowing experience of last year’s flood, its relentless waters sweeping away possessions and disrupting lives. “The flood was massive,” Akume recalls, his voice laced with the weight of their collective ordeal. “It destroyed many of our properties, leaving us with nothing but the clothes on our backs.” Amidst the chaos and despair, the government offered a glimmer of hope, pledging assistance to the flood victims. However, Akume’s hopes were soon dashed as the promised aid failed to materialize. “The government has done nothing,” he laments, his voice tinged with frustration. “Even the little that finally came was insignificant and distributed unfairly.” The Ganaja community is now left to grapple with the aftermath of the flood, their resilience tested by the inaction of those in power. Akume’s plea is clear and urgent: “We urge the government to intensify the dredging of the river to prevent future flooding.” But his plea goes beyond immediate relief. He envisions a future where the flood victims are not merely provided with temporary assistance but with a permanent solution – the construction of estates away from the flood-prone areas. “We need to be relocated to a safe place,” Akume emphasizes, his voice filled with hope. “We can no longer bear the burden of running helter-skelter every year.” The plight of the Ganaja community serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the responsibility of governments to protect their citizens. Akume’s call to action echoes the collective yearning for a future free from the fear of floods, a future where resilience is not tested but nurtured by the support and compassion of those in power.