Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has called on stakeholders to collaborate and devise proactive strategies to mitigate flood disasters predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET). This appeal was made during a stakeholders’ meeting on Emergency Management and Flood Preparedness organized by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Represented by his deputy, Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu, Governor Ododo emphasized the severe threats that flooding poses to nine local government areas in Kogi State. “We will continue to invest in early warning systems to sensitize and enlighten the people, especially those living along riverine areas,” he stated. The governor also highlighted that government efforts alone are insufficient to effectively address the challenges posed by flooding and urged stakeholders to support his administration in tackling the issue.
In his welcome address, Alhaji Mouktar Atimah, Executive Secretary of SEMA, stated that the stakeholders’ meeting aimed to strengthen synergy and cooperation among stakeholders ahead of the anticipated 2024 flooding. He noted that between April and May 2024, over 1,000 households in three local government areas were affected by wind and rain storms. Atimah assured that SEMA would continue to intensify efforts in managing disasters and sensitizing the public about the predicted flooding.
“The state government has done a lot in saving lives and property of its citizens and protecting the vulnerable,” Atimah added. He urged stakeholders to take NIMET’s flood predictions seriously to reduce the incidents of death and property loss.
Chief Salifu Adaji, the Onu of Itobe, delivered a goodwill message urging the Federal Government to be proactive in finding a lasting solution to the perennial flooding affecting riverine communities. He suggested that the Federal Government embark on massive dredging, with the Nigerian Navy supervising to ensure the contract is executed according to specifications.
