In a proactive move to address the escalating flood crisis in Kogi State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has mobilized an emergency response team to enhance local rescue and evacuation efforts. This initiative comes as floodwaters continue to rise in several communities, threatening the safety of residents.
NEMA’s statement, released on its official X account, on Wednesday, highlighted the involvement of specialized experts in search and rescue operations. These professionals will support the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and work alongside other stakeholders to conduct immediate assessments of affected populations.
“The use of mobile water purification systems is essential to guarantee that affected families have access to clean water during this critical time,” said NEMA Director General Mrs. Zubaida Umar. This initiative is a key component of a broader plan to address the urgent needs of communities suffering from extreme flooding.
The agency had earlier alerted multiple states, including Kogi, regarding the risk of flooding and has set up its Zonal, Territorial, and Operations offices. Key equipment for quick response has been strategically placed to facilitate effective search and rescue missions and evacuation plans. “We are actively working with local agencies to establish Emergency Operation Centres (EOCs) to enhance our response efforts,” Umar stated.
NEMA has recognized several states, such as Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, and Kwara, as especially at risk of flooding. The agency is collaborating with local ministries and departments to ready vulnerable communities, aid in evacuation strategies, and identify secure locations for temporary shelters.
Furthermore, NEMA is improving its disaster response efforts through partnerships with the Military Disaster Response Units, the Nigeria Police, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC). The Nigerian Red Cross Society will also mobilize its volunteers to support the impacted regions.
Umar encouraged those living in areas susceptible to flooding, especially near the Benue and Niger Rivers, to stay alert and collaborate with emergency services. She stressed, “We ask communities to actively engage with us as we keep an eye on the situation.”
By means of these collaborative initiatives, NEMA seeks to reduce the effects of flooding and safeguard the safety and welfare of families in Kogi State and other impacted areas.
