To tackle rising flood threats, NEMA has launched a nationwide awareness drive, partnering with communities to spread early warnings and promote disaster preparedness across Nigeria.
In flood-prone states like Anambra, officials pledged improved drainage systems, stricter building regulations, and better-equipped holding centers to reduce damage and protect vulnerable residents.
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In a bid to mitigate the looming threat of flood disasters across Nigeria, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has commenced a nationwide outreach campaign, engaging vulnerable communities to raise awareness and deliver early warning messages. The initiative is part of the 2025 National Preparedness and Response Campaign aimed at reducing the devastating impact of floods and related hazards.
During a courtesy visit to Anambra State’s Government House in Awka, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, emphasized the importance of community-based disaster preparedness. Represented by the Deputy Director of Special Duties, Dr. Thickman Tanimu, the DG revealed that NEMA teams are being dispatched to every state to collaborate with local communities and authorities.
Dr. Tanimu explained that the campaign is being jointly executed with the support of State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMA), Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs), and community-based volunteers. These stakeholders are tasked with delivering life-saving early warning information directly to those living in flood-prone areas.
He added that NEMA’s Zonal Directorates and Operations Offices are driving the engagement efforts simultaneously across the nation, working closely with grassroots communities. According to the agency, effective disaster risk reduction must involve the people who are most at risk, and community involvement remains a cornerstone of success.
Mrs. Umar emphasized the critical role of traditional rulers, religious institutions, media outlets, women, and youth groups in amplifying the campaign. “Disaster management is everyone’s responsibility. To protect our communities, we must work together to ensure the early warning messages reach the people who need them most,” she said.
Receiving the NEMA delegation on behalf of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, reiterated the state’s commitment to flood preparedness. He acknowledged that Anambra remains one of the most flood-prone states in Nigeria, especially during the rainy season.
Dr. Ibezim noted that the state government has adopted a proactive stance toward disaster prevention. He highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure that all water drainage systems in new road projects are properly channeled to nearby rivers to prevent flash flooding. Contractors handling public infrastructure projects have been strictly directed to factor in proper water flow termination to avoid obstruction.
In addition, the Deputy Governor disclosed that the government is working to make flood-holding centers more habitable. Plans are underway to equip these camps with basic facilities, including recreational amenities, to provide comfort and safety to displaced residents during flooding emergencies.
He also pointed out that the administration is discouraging the construction of buildings along waterways and drainage paths, as such activities exacerbate flooding incidents. Enforcement of environmental laws remains a key strategy in reducing risks.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Dr. Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner for Environment; Dr. Law Mefor, Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment; Mrs. Ngozi Echeazu, NEMA South East Zonal Head of Operations; and Chief Paul Odenigbo, Executive Secretary of Anambra SEMA.
This stakeholder engagement reflects a united effort by both federal and state agencies to prepare communities ahead of the rainy season, minimizing the chances of flood-related disasters and safeguarding lives and properties.
