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President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for swift action to prevent an impending flood crisis across Nigeria.
The directive was conveyed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, during an emergency meeting held at Aso Villa, Abuja. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu.
A committee, chaired by Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, has been established with a seven-day mandate to develop a roadmap. This roadmap will harmonize various reports, including the National Economic Council (NEC) report on flooding, the 2022 National Flood Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, and other national assessments of flood-related issues. Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, will serve as the committee’s vice-chairman, and it is expected to submit recommendations within seven days.
Vice President Shettima emphasized that while the situation may not be dire, the nation must be prepared and cannot afford to take chances. He noted that the roadmap will help address the flood crisis in Nigeria and involve the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and the Federal Government in executing responsibilities.
The Vice President emphasized the need to mobilize resources and share responsibilities, highlighting that the NEDC and NDDC would be instrumental in providing support to specific states. Chief Executives from relevant agencies and reactions from governors were part of the discussions during the emergency meeting.
The committee, which includes key government officials and experts, will work towards implementing a comprehensive strategy for addressing the potential flood crisis in Nigeria. Rukaiya El-Rufai will serve as the committee’s secretary, with the task of overseeing these crucial efforts.
