By Abdullahi Lukman
The Kogi State government has intensified flood preparedness efforts ahead of predicted 2025 flooding, with measures aimed at minimizing impact and protecting vulnerable communities across the state.
At an emergency meeting of the State Emergency Preparedness and Response Team in Lokoja, Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alhaji Mouktar Atimah, said 42 internally displaced persons (IDP) camps across nine flood-prone local government areas have been renovated, fumigated, and equipped to host displaced residents.
Security personnel have been deployed to ensure safety in the camps, while speedboats and life jackets were distributed by the Ministry of Transport to support timely evacuation.
The Ministry of Health has also mobilized emergency medical teams to address potential outbreaks and provide care.
“In line with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s directive, our staff have received professional training to ensure a coordinated and effective response,” Atimah said.
Relief materials worth over ₦1 billion, including food and non-food items, have begun arriving and are being stored at a temporary warehouse at Kogi Hotels in Lokoja.
Distribution will begin once all supplies are received, with high-risk communities like Oworo in Lokoja and Unugwa in Ibaji LGA listed as first beneficiaries.
In a related update, Atimah confirmed that 36 people died in a recent boat mishap in Unugwa, Ibaji LGA.
Of the 80 passengers onboard, 44 were rescued, while seven remain missing as search operations continue.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders including the governor’s special advisers on emergency management, IDP camps, and other SEMA officials.
