Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), says it has taken proactive measures in a resolute effort to counter the looming 2024 flood
prediction.
Alhaji Mouktar Atimah, the Executive Secretary of SEMA gave the assurance during a sensitization programme in Idah in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
with stakeholders from Ibaji and Idah LGAs, areas historically vulnerable to flooding in attendance.
Atimah underscored the critical need for preparedness, noting Kogi State’s inclusion among five states on red alert based on NIMET’s flood forecast. The program aimed to equip communities, particularly those along riverbanks, with essential knowledge to mitigate risks and ensure safety. Atimah expressed gratitude for governmental support and urged stakeholders to disseminate information effectively within their communities.
Alhaji Atimah,who thanked Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo for the Support the agency is making to carry out sensitization and preparation for the flood prediction, described him as people-oriented, focused governor, striving to save lives and properties in the state.
He called on the stakeholders, who he described as opinion moulders, carefully selected based on their reach, to use the information learnt at the stakeholder meeting in educating people of their communities living around the flood plains.
The SEMA boss called on people living around the River Banks to begin to relocate, pointing out that it is better to be alive than living in their comfort zone.
He emphasized the importance of proactive planning and stakeholder involvement to minimize the impact if flooding occurs and underscored the current administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Atimah described the event as a significant step, especially given the historical vulnerability of these areas to flooding. He noted that Kogi State is among five states on high alert for the 2024 flood prediction, with Ibaji, Idah, Lokoja, and Kogi LGAs specifically at risk.
He stressed the urgent need to prepare and equip communities in flood-prone areas, particularly as water levels rise.
The SEMS boss expressed gratitude to NEMA for focusing its sensitization efforts on Kogi State and praised Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo for his support in facilitating these preparations.
The Executive Secretary urged stakeholders, chosen for their influential roles in their communities, to use the knowledge gained from the meeting to educate residents living in flood-prone areas. He advised those living near riverbanks to consider relocating to ensure their safety.
Attah Igala, Alaji Mathew Oguche Akpa, who was represented at the event, commended both federal and state governments for their efforts to reduce the impact of potential flooding. The traditional ruler noted the importance of early preparation and sensitization.
Mr. Justin Uwazuruonye, Head of Operations at NEMA, speaking on behalf of the Director General, emphasized the critical role of sensitization in disaster risk management. He attributed flooding primarily to climate change and poor waste management.
Uwazuruonye called for improved waste disposal practices, noting that indiscriminate dumping has been linked to increased flooding.
During the event, representatives discussed disaster response strategies, emphasizing waste management’s pivotal role in flood prevention. The discussions highlighted the link between climate change and flooding, urging responsible waste disposal to curb environmental impact.
The gathering at Winners Hotel, Idah, united diverse community leaders, including traditional rulers and youth representatives, underscoring a collaborative approach to safeguarding lives and properties against potential flood devastation.
The Reporters recalls that the state was hit in the 2012 and 2020 floods that ravaged more than half its 21 local government areas with heavy in properties and farmlands worth billions of naira in addition to rendering thousands of families homeless.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
