Ugo Aliogo
The ActionAid Nigeria has expressed concern over the alert issued by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) about an impending flood in nine states.
NEMA had listed the states to include Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa.
Owing to the alert by NEMA, Actionaid Nigeria in a statement signed by its Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, noted that the development had already led to the displacement of communities, posing a significant risk of further devastation to crops and critical infrastructure.
The statement also revealed that the loss of 28 lives and the displacement of thousands underscored the urgent need for collective and concerted efforts to address this crisis.
ActionAid Nigeria expressed commitment to working alongside relevant agencies, the government, and affected communities to provide immediate relief, support, and rehabilitation efforts, imploring the affected states to urgently activate their emergency response plans to safeguard lives and property.
In the statement AAN called on both federal and state governments to collaborate with the national and state emergency management agencies to expedite the provision of essential relief materials, noting that this includes food, clean water, shelter, and medical supplies, ensuring that affected individuals and families receive timely support.
The organisation urged the government to address the immediate healthcare needs of those impacted, stating that it was imperative that medical teams and vital healthcare services be promptly deployed, with particular focus on vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
It also stressed the need to, “ensure that SEMA’s evacuation procedure is organised and well-coordinated, guaranteeing the safety and well-being of all evacuees. Additionally, ensure seamless coordination among various emergency response agencies, NGOs, and community-based organisations. This collaborative effort is essential in optimising resources and providing effective assistance. A thorough assessment of the evolving impact on affected communities is crucial to guide response efforts effectively.
“Intensify public awareness campaigns through the National Orientation Agency. These campaigns should focus on educating citizens about safety measures, evacuation procedures, and preventive actions in flood-prone areas. Ensure accurate and up-to-date information is disseminated to affected communities, emphasising precautionary measures and available support services.
“Amidst the glaring negligence of erosion and disaster-prone zones across various states, despite significant allocations from the Ecology Fund, ActionAid Nigeria demands an immediate and comprehensive review of the fund utilisation, ensuring urgent deployment of the funds for immediate emergency response and prevention of future disasters.”
It added: “We also call on our development partners to stand with us, working together with stakeholders to provide essential relief, rehabilitation, and resources to communities grappling with the impending flood disaster.
“Let’s ensure no one is left behind during this urgent time. ActionAid Nigeria is fully prepared to collaborate in this critical mission.”
