By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Ministry of Home Affairs, Information and Culture has launched a statewide advocacy campaign aimed at strengthening community resilience against flooding, cholera and other climate-related hazards through increased public awareness and engagement with traditional institutions.
The campaign commenced with an advocacy visit to the Emir of Fika and Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, CON, CFR, at his palace in Potiskum.
Leading the delegation on behalf of the Commissioner, Hon. Abdullahi Bego, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Salamatu Yahaya Nangere, said the initiative is part of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods through public enlightenment on the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and the expected impacts of the rainy season.
She said forecasts indicate that 12 local government areas in the state are at risk of flooding, with Geidam, Gulani and Yunusari projected to be among the hardest-hit communities.
According to her, the campaign is designed to encourage proactive measures to reduce the risks of flooding, cholera, malaria and other climate-related health challenges through improved environmental sanitation, proper waste disposal, personal hygiene and adherence to early warning advisories.
Hajiya Nangere stressed that traditional rulers were chosen as key partners because of their influence in mobilising communities and promoting behavioural change at the grassroots.
She urged them to champion public awareness on disaster preparedness, environmental sanitation and climate resilience.
Responding on behalf of the Emir, the Maiyasa of Fika, Alhaji Muhammadu Idriss, who conveyed the royal message through the Sarkin Adabi of the Emirate, Alhaji Mohammed Dahiru Zayi, expressed appreciation to Governor Mai Mala Buni for prioritising climate resilience and environmental sustainability through sustained public enlightenment and environmental initiatives.
The Emir also commended the state government for recognising the strategic role of traditional institutions in community mobilisation, describing the advocacy campaign as timely in view of the growing threats posed by climate change.
He further called for intensified tree-planting efforts across the state, noting that afforestation remains one of the most effective ways to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of climate change.
The advocacy team included experts from the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health, and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
They delivered presentations on climate change, flood preparedness, disease prevention, climate-smart agriculture and the role of communities in reducing climate-related risks.
