Floods, windstorms and other natural disasters have destroyed residential buildings, farmlands and infrastructure across seven local government areas of Taraba State, leaving residents facing significant losses and threatening their livelihoods.
The Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (TSEMA) disclosed the development while providing an update on the impact of the disasters and ongoing emergency response efforts in affected communities. The agency's Executive Secretary, Dr Echuseh Audu, said several areas had experienced varying degrees of destruction following heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions.
The affected local government areas are Donga, Gassol, Bali, Ussa, Kurmi, Karim Lamido and Sardauna.
In Gassol, flooding from major rivers reportedly destroyed buildings and submerged large areas of farmland. Bali also recorded considerable damage to residential buildings and infrastructure, while Fikyu Ward in Ussa Local Government Area suffered damage to buildings and agricultural land.
Kurmi experienced the destruction of houses caused by windstorms, flooding and fire, while several buildings were reportedly damaged in Karim Lamido.
In Donga, the Akate and Gyeta Aure wards recorded significant losses involving residential buildings, farmlands and infrastructure. The situation was also severe in Kakara community in Sardauna Local Government Area, where houses and farmlands were submerged, forcing some residents to leave their homes.
The destruction of farmlands has raised concerns about the economic well-being of affected households, particularly those that depend on agriculture for their income and food supply. Beyond the immediate loss of property, damaged crops could reduce farmers' earnings, worsen food insecurity and make recovery more difficult for vulnerable families.
Dr Audu urged residents living in flood-prone, low-lying and riverside communities to relocate to safer locations, including higher ground and designated temporary camps for displaced persons. The advice was aimed at reducing the risk of casualties and preventing further losses as communities continue to face severe weather conditions.
The agency also acknowledged the support of the Taraba State Government under Governor Agbu Kefas in providing humanitarian assistance to disaster victims. TSEMA reaffirmed its commitment to reaching affected communities and supporting residents dealing with the consequences of the disasters.
Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the assistance provided. Thankgod Haji commended the government for providing shelter, while Sarah Alpha praised TSEMA and the state government for supplying food and other essential items.
The latest destruction highlights the continuing challenges posed by seasonal flooding and severe weather in communities where farming remains a major source of livelihood. The damage to homes, infrastructure and agricultural land also underscores the need for sustained emergency assistance, improved preparedness and measures to help affected residents rebuild their lives.
Taraba has faced repeated flood-related emergencies. In September 2026, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency included the state among 15 states at high risk of riverine flooding during a seven-day forecast period, warning communities near floodplains to prepare to move to safer ground.
As the rainy season continues to pose risks in vulnerable areas, residents have been advised to take official warnings seriously and prioritise their safety by relocating when necessary.
The number of households affected and the total value of property and agricultural losses were not specified in the available report.
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