Owerri: The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Abia State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have announced the implementation of measures to prevent flooding in Abia and Imo states during the rainy season. Nnamdi Igwe, Head of Operations at NEMA’s Owerri Office, shared that the agencies have issued early warning alerts to Local Government Areas (LGAs) at risk of flooding.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, NEMA has partnered with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NHSA) to enhance awareness in the affected regions. The agencies are conducting public sensitisation campaigns through various media and town hall meetings to educate residents on flood precautionary measures.
Igwe highlighted that emergency response teams have received refresher training in flood rescue operations, first aid, evacuation, and camp management. Strategic reserves of food, medical supplies, and emergency shelter materials are available in zonal warehouses nationwide. High-risk communities have been identified, with evacuation routes and temporary shelters mapped out in collaboration with state emergency agencies.
Igwe stated that NEMA is coordinating with state governments, security agencies, NGOs, and the Red Cross for a swift emergency response when necessary. He expressed optimism that these strategies will mitigate flooding impacts and protect lives and property.
Meanwhile, in Abia, farming activities have begun as farmers and unskilled laborers return to cultivate their lands. Cucumber farmer Gregory Nzenwa mentioned challenges like lack of access to high-yield seeds and organic fertilizer, which affect crop yields. He urged the government to support agriculture in the region.
Mrs. Ukamaka Ilomuanya, leader of Oganiru Multipurpose Cooperative Society, noted reliance on manual labor and traditional farming methods, emphasizing the importance of farming for food security and income in rural communities. Charles Iwuozor, another farmer, highlighted issues with pest control and wildlife damaging crops, advocating for organic pest control solutions.
In Umuahia, Dr. Sunday Jackson, Executive Secretary of SEMA, outlined proactive flood measures, including drainage construction and awareness campaigns. He praised Gov. Alex Otti for addressing environmental challenges and NEMA for supporting the state. Jackson called for more interventions, citing the magnitude of flood disasters in Abia.
Additionally, Chris Ike, Director at the state Ministry of Environment, and Mrs. Peace Ezeka, Coordinator of Machiani Foundation, emphasized the importance of information dissemination and community sensitization to prepare for potential flooding.
