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Action Aid Nigeria, AAN, a civil society organization has urged State Governments of the Niger Delta Region to take proactive measures against flood which is imminent to happen in the region.
This has become necessary following the devastating flood that ravaged some Northern States lately.
The Minister for water resources and sanitation, Engr Joseph Utsev, had last week during a press briefing also urged governors and local government chairmen in the Niger Delta Region to put in place strong measures to mitigate the coming flood expected to hit the region following the rising levels River Niger and River Benue.
Andrew Mamedu, the Country Director of AAN said: “We strongly advise the governors and relevant agencies to take immediate and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the predicted flood. These measures include moving residents in flood-prone areas to safer havens or emergency shelters conducting awareness campaigns in flood-prone areas, clearing drainage systems, and stockpiling relief materials like food and medical kit for those that will be affected.
He also stated that the government at different levels should tackle the menace’s root cause as a measure to checkmate future occurrences.
“Moreover, supporting climate change adaptation and resilience-building initiatives, enhancing early warning systems and flood forecasting, and promoting community-led flood management approaches will help reduce the risk and impact of flooding.
- Read also: Prepare for imminent flood, FG urges states
“By taking these proactive and comprehensive measures, we can minimise the devastating effects of the predicted flood, protect lives and livelihoods, and build a more resilient and sustainable future for all Nigerians.
“Beyond the warning from the Federal Government, they still have that coordinating responsibility to ensure the states comply and deploy its relevant agencies as well to deal with this perennial problem.”
Further, he said: “State and local governments have a crucial role to play in mitigating the impact of flooding in Nigeria. Despite warnings and predictions, many state and local governments have been slow to respond, leaving vulnerable communities to bear the brunt of the disaster.
“To address this, they must prioritise flood awareness campaigns, clear drainage systems, and relocate vulnerable populations from floodplains. They must also activate emergency preparedness measures and work closely with NEMA and other relevant agencies to provide support to affected communities.
“Furthermore, state and local governments must partner the Federal Government to take proactive steps to address the root causes of flooding, including deforestation, land degradation, and poor urban planning.”
