The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has conducted a full-scale flood simulation exercise in Rivers State, aimed at sensitizing communities at risk of flooding and strengthening coordinated response mechanisms in the state.
The exercise, supported by the Rivers State Government, was held in Mbiama, Ahoada West Local Government Area of the state with multi-stakeholder participation to highlight their roles and responsibilities during flood emergencies.
The Director General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, said the exercise was a proactive step towards safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and national assets.
The director General of NEMA Zubaida umar, says flooding remains one of the most recurrent and devastating natural disasters in Nigeria.
According to her, beyond the loss of lives and property, it disrupts oil production and undermines the economy.
She explained that the essence of the simulation exercise is not only to test their plans and protocols but also to identify gaps and strengthen our multi-agency collaboration towards building resilient communities.
The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd.) in a message to the gathering appreciating NEMA’s partnership in organizing the exercise, says the state government has commenced the process of establishing a State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide a permanent structure for disaster preparedness and response.
MUST READ: Kogi Flooding: NEMA Tells Residents In Flood-Prone Communities To Relocate
The Director of Search and Rescue of NEMA, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong, who coordinated the simulation, said it was a practical demonstration of NEMA’s commitment to inclusive flood preparedness and response across the country.
The Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Promise Jacob, expressed appreciation to NEMA and the Rivers State Government for bringing the flood sensitization exercise to their doorsteps and pledged the full cooperation of residents in mitigating the impacts of flooding.
The simulation exercise had the active participation of multiple stakeholders, including the personnel and assets of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Air Force, alongside first responders and local volunteers.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
