By George George Idowu
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has disclosed that floods have already affected 42 Local Government Areas across 18 states, resulting in 44 fatalities.
This was revealed on Wednesday during a review by the National Emergency Coordination forum in Abuja to ascertain the country’s flood situation and strengthen partnerships with stakeholders for effective mitigation and response strategies.
NEMA Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar emphasized the need for proactive measures to save lives and respond effectively to affected areas.
She urged relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and NGOs to continue their efforts to reduce the impact of disasters, especially flooding and the ongoing cholera outbreak.
According to NEMA, they have intensified public sensitization campaigns on flood disaster mitigation and proper waste management, utilizing local government and community outreach as well as print and electronic media.
She said the agency has also activated the National Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) to coordinate responses, share information, and provide timely support to affected areas.
Mrs. Umar expressed confidence that the forum’s outcome would lead to more effective actions addressing both the flood crisis and public health concerns related to cholera.
She encouraged participants to contribute to enhancing emergency preparedness and creating resilient communities.
On the part of Rear Admiral Umar Farik, representing the Nigerian Military reaffirmed the military’s commitment to supporting emergency preparedness and response.
Trond Jensen, Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Nigeria, assured continued cooperation and support from the UN system in managing disasters in the country.