Headline

10 Ways To Stay Safe During Flooding Emergencies

Published

2 years ago

February 23, 2024

In recent times, heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding have become all too common across states in the country.

This has over time posed significant risks to communities in many states of the country.

Apart from the risk of loss of lives and properties, floods have the potential to elevate the spread of water vector-borne illnesses like typhoid fever, cholera, malaria, and yellow fever, among various others.

The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention stated that flooding causes more deaths annually than any other thunderstorm-related hazard.

On Tuesday, there was a heavy downpour in several states in Nigeria including Lagos, Oyo and Ogun.

The heavy downpour caused serious flooding leaving many residents and motorists stranded.

The rain which started around 2 am and 5 am in some areas and spread across the states lasted till a few minutes before 10 am in Lagos and parts of Ogun state on Tuesday leaving roads flooded.

In 2022, flooding affected 33 out of the 36 states in addition to parts of the Federal Capital Territory, according to the National Emergency Management Agency.

According to official data, the floods resulted in 612 fatalities, over 2,400 injuries, and displacement of 1.4 million individuals. Furthermore, the floods caused extensive damage to communities, agricultural lands, and transportation infrastructure, including roads and bridges. Approximately 200,000 residences suffered damage, with 332,327 hectares of land affected by the disaster.

As we are faced with the difficulties posed by increasing water levels, it’s essential to equip ourselves with information on how to ensure safety when dealing with floods.

Below are ways to protect yourself and your loved ones during flooding emergencies:

1. Stay Informed: Always take note of weather forecasts and flood warnings issued by local authorities to anticipate potential risks and take necessary precautions.

2. Exercise caution: Study your surroundings and adhere to safety protocols before navigating through floods. It can be difficult to distinguish between roads and drainage in flooded areas.

3. Avoid walking, swimming, and driving through flooded areas: It is best to stay away from flooded roads. This is crucial for safety because flooded areas can hide dangers such as submerged objects, open manholes, or swift currents, which can pose serious risks to pedestrians and drivers.

Walking, swimming, or driving through flooded areas increases the likelihood of accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. Therefore, it’s advisable to find alternative routes or wait until floodwaters recede before venturing into these areas.

4. Avoid construction of houses and other structures on waterways: Waterways are natural or artificial channels where water flows, such as rivers, streams, or drainage systems. Constructing buildings or structures in these areas can lead to various negative consequences.

Avoiding construction on waterways is essential for mitigating the risks associated with flooding, erosion, environmental degradation, and safety concerns as it helps to protect both property and lives.

It also ensures sustainable development practices that respect the natural flow and balance of water systems.

5. Turn off electrical appliances at home: Ensure to turn off all electrical appliances in your home, especially as water is a major conductor of electricity. This means there is a higher risk of electric shock or electrocution in flooded areas. areas with flash floods.

6. Pay attention to the weather to plan your movement during the day: Be mindful of weather forecasts and conditions to make informed decisions about activities and travel throughout the day

7. Ensure an adequate stock of provisions: It is crucial to secure sufficient supplies for survival. Basic food items and clean water are essential to ward off hunger and maintain hygiene amidst prolonged flooding.

8. Leave areas subject to flooding. You can move in with relatives who live away from areas prone to flooding.

9. Avoid drinking untreated water: Floodwaters typically harbour various contaminants, including fecal matter, chemicals, and debris. Drinking such water poses a significant risk of diarrhoea illnesses, dehydration, and potentially fatal consequences.

10. Use waterproof containers: Use containers that are designed to prevent water from entering or damaging your valuables.

Headline

JAPA: Top Six Countries To Obtain Easiest Citizenship

Published

5 hours ago

December 30, 2025

Editor

As a Nigerian considering relocation plans, interest in countries with clear and less complicated citizenship pathways is a smart way to not just guarantee greener pastures, but also provide you with the opportunity to feel more at home in a foreign land. While some of the programmes are ancestry-based, others allow Nigerians with such a link to try other means.

Contents
1. Dominica
2. Ireland
3. Turkey
4. Portugal
5. Vanuatu
6. Italy
Though rules vary widely across borders, some nations stand out for offering citizenship through investment or family ties with fewer hurdles and faster processing timelines.

Below are the top six countries with the easiest citizenship:

1. Dominica
Dominica operates a citizenship-by-investment programme that allows applicants to qualify through a contribution to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or by investing in approved real estate. Processing typically takes a few months. Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone. There is no residency requirement, and dual citizenship is permitted.

2. Ireland
Ireland provides a clear citizenship pathway for individuals with Irish ancestry. Those with an Irish-born parent qualify automatically, while people with an Irish-born grandparent can apply through the Foreign Births Register. An Irish passport grants full European Union rights, including freedom of movement across EU countries. Dual citizenship is allowed, and there is no language requirement for applicants applying by descent.

3. Turkey
Turkey offers a fast-track citizenship option through investment. Foreign nationals who purchase qualifying real estate valued at a minimum of $400,000 can obtain citizenship within a few months. The programme does not require residency or renunciation of an existing nationality. Turkish passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries, with ongoing efforts to expand travel agreements.

4. Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa programme provides a residency-to-citizenship route for foreign investors. After five years of legal residence and meeting programme conditions, applicants may apply for citizenship. Approved investment options include venture capital funds and other qualifying assets. Successful applicants gain an EU passport, access to the Schengen Area, and dual citizenship, subject to passing a basic Portuguese language test.

5. Vanuatu
Vanuatu runs one of the world’s fastest citizenship programmes. Through its Development Support Programme, eligible applicants can receive citizenship in as little as two months after making the required financial contribution. The country offers visa-free access to over 100 destinations and has no tax on global income or capital gains. Residency requirements are minimal.

6. Italy
Italy grants citizenship by descent to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, following a 2025 legal update that tightened eligibility rules. Applicants must provide official documents proving a direct family link to an Italian ancestor. Italian citizenship comes with full EU rights, wide visa-free travel, and the ability to pass citizenship to future generations. Dual nationality is allowed, and no language test is required for descent-based applications.
(Tribune)

Headline

Japa: 5 Affordable European Countries Nigerians Can Relocate To

Published

5 hours ago

December 30, 2025

Editor

As economic pressures continue to mount, many Nigerians are increasingly exploring relocation as a path toward stability, better opportunities, and an improved quality of life. However, traditional destinations such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States are becoming more difficult to access due to rising living costs and stricter visa policies.

Contents
1. Slovakia
2. Latvia
3. Portugal
4. Hungary
5. Georgia

But beyond these popular options, several lesser-known European countries are emerging as affordable and welcoming alternatives. Offering low tuition fees, flexible visa policies, and a reasonable cost of living, these nations are becoming attractive relocation choices for Nigerians seeking balance and opportunity.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights five budget-friendly countries Nigerians can consider for relocation:

1. Slovakia
Located in Central Europe, Slovakia combines stability, safety, and simplicity; three factors often missing in high-pressure relocation destinations.

Though it may not feature prominently on social media relocation lists, Slovakia’s affordability and accessibility make it a hidden gem. Students enjoy low tuition fees, while residents benefit from proximity to major European cities like Vienna and Prague. For Nigerians seeking structure and affordability, Slovakia provides a peaceful yet practical alternative.

2. Latvia
The Baltic nation of Latvia is fast becoming a preferred destination for international students and skilled professionals. Known for its low living costs and straightforward residence procedures, Latvia offers a convenient entry point into the European Union.

Riga, its capital city, blends historic charm with modern infrastructure, providing an ideal environment for studying, working, or gradually transitioning to other parts of Europe.

3. Portugal
Situated on Europe’s western coast, Portugal is one of the continent’s most liveable and affordable countries. Known for its mild weather, safety, and reasonable living costs, Portugal offers a soft landing for Nigerians looking to relocate without excessive financial strain. The country’s friendly visa policies and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for students, remote workers, and small business owners. Beyond its scenic beauty, Portugal provides what many Nigerians desire: peace of mind and an easier start abroad.

4. Hungary
Hungary has quietly become a top choice for international students, offering quality education at affordable tuition rates. Living costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe, and cities like Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen provide vibrant yet budget-friendly environments.

For Nigerians looking to relocate through education, Hungary offers a realistic and sustainable path toward long-term settlement in Europe.

5. Georgia
For Nigerians seeking an easy transition abroad, Georgia presents one of the smoothest relocation routes. The country allows Nigerians to stay visa-free for up to one year, eliminating embassy interviews and lengthy paperwork.

Located between Europe and Asia, Georgia offers a blend of natural beauty and affordability. Rent, transport, and food costs remain moderate, making it an excellent base for digital nomads and young professionals.

As migration trends evolve, success now depends on flexibility and strategic planning. While the dream of relocating abroad remains strong, the path doesn’t always have to lead through the UK or Canada. For Nigerians ready to look beyond the familiar, Europe’s quieter corners still offer accessible and rewarding opportunities.

Headline

Insecurity: US Congressman Riley Moore Reveals Trump’s Mission In Nigeria

Published

1 day ago

December 29, 2025

Editor

US Congressman Riley Moore has dismissed insinuations that President Donald Trump is attempting to bring war to Nigeria.

Moore made the remark in a post on his verified X handle on Monday.

His comments followed a US military airstrike on a terrorist enclave in north-west Nigeria on Christmas Day, reportedly carried out on the directive of President Trump.

“President Trump is not trying to bring war to Nigeria, he’s bringing peace and security to Nigeria and to the thousands of Christians who face horrific violence and death.

“The strikes against ISIS on Christmas, in coordination with the Nigerian government, have given hope to the Christians in Nigeria,” he said.

Recall that the lawmaker had previously stated that President Trump is focused on ending the killing of Christians in Nigeria.

It will be recalled that Moore led a US delegation on a fact-finding mission into alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria some weeks ago.

During his brief stay in the country, Moore travelled to Benue State, where he interfaced with religious and traditional leaders, as well as internally displaced persons.