RIVERS STATE MINISTRY OF SPECIAL DUTIES TO PARTNER WITH NEMA ON FLOOD MANAGEMENT

RIVERS STATE MINISTRY OF SPECIAL DUTIES TO PARTNER WITH NEMA ON FLOOD MANAGEMENT

The Rivers State Ministry of Special Duties has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in sensitizing the public on flood management to mitigate the impact on affected communities. This was disclosed by the Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Samuel Anya, during a courtesy visit by representatives of NEMA led by the South-South Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Adebiyi Babatunde Razaq, to his office on Friday.

Dr. Anya commended NEMA for their invaluable service to the state and urged them to continue their good work. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures in addressing flood-related challenges, highlighting the need for effective public awareness and preparedness.

In his remarks, Mr. Razaq congratulated Dr. Anya on his recent appointment as Commissioner for Special Duties and expressed confidence in his leadership to elevate the Ministry's role in disaster management. He further assured the Commissioner of NEMA's commitment to working closely with the Ministry.

Mr. Razaq also shared insights from the downscaling of Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and NEMA's seasonal flood predictions, noting that 13 communities across nine Local Government Areas in Rivers State are expected to experience flash floods. The affected LGAs include Ahoada West, Ahoada East, Abua/Odual, Emohua, Andoni, Oyigbo, Tai, Opobo, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni.

He revealed that NEMA has been preparing for the impending floods since June and will intensify its sensitization efforts in the coming weeks. "We expect a rise in water levels that may inundate some areas. We are working with the Caretaker Committee Chairmen of the affected LGAs and collaborating with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). Preparatory jingles have been produced to raise awareness," Mr. Razaq stated.

He also urged the public to take necessary precautions by desilting drains, engaging in environmental sanitation, and relocating to higher grounds if necessary, in order to minimize the impact of flooding.

Ledesi Emkpa Press Officer, Ministry of Special Duties September 6, 2024