In the wake of severe flooding that has recently ravaged parts of Ondo State, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, has called for stronger cooperation between the federal and state authorities to better manage future emergency situations. Mrs. Umar made this appeal during a working visit to Ondo State, where she conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the flood’s impact and met with the state’s Deputy Governor, Mr. Olayide Adelami.
During her visit, Mrs. Umar emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between NEMA and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in disaster preparedness and response. She noted that the devastation caused by the floods underscored the urgent need for improved communication, resource sharing, and preventive measures between federal and state agencies.
“We must continue to strengthen our efforts, especially in collaboration with state authorities, to mitigate the effects of natural disasters such as these floods,” Mrs. Umar stated. “By working closely together, we can ensure that our response to emergencies is swift and effective, reducing the loss of lives and property.”
Mrs. Umar praised the existing collaboration between NEMA and the Ondo State government through SEMA, particularly in the area of flood season sensitization campaigns. She acknowledged the efforts made by both agencies to raise awareness among communities about the dangers of floods and the importance of disaster preparedness. However, she also highlighted that more needs to be done to equip local communities with the knowledge and tools needed to protect themselves from the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
The NEMA boss urged residents to adopt a proactive approach to disaster risk reduction by taking early warning systems seriously and implementing safety measures in their homes and communities. “It is critical that individuals and communities take responsibility in disaster risk reduction. By adhering to early warnings and taking preventive steps, we can significantly reduce the impact of these disasters,” she said.
During the meeting, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Olayide Adelami, expressed his gratitude for NEMA’s continued support and swift intervention during the recent flood crisis. He acknowledged the critical role NEMA played in providing relief materials and technical support to the affected communities, which helped alleviate the hardship caused by the flood.
“We are thankful for NEMA’s prompt response and the assistance provided during this challenging time,” Mr. Adelami remarked. “The state government is committed to working closely with NEMA to ensure that we are better prepared for future disasters. It is crucial that our people heed early warnings and avoid actions that could exacerbate the situation.”
Mr. Adelami also used the opportunity to emphasize the need for proper waste management, regular drainage maintenance, and responsible urban planning. He pointed out that illegal construction on waterways and blocked drainage systems were key contributors to the flooding that had overwhelmed parts of the state. “We must all take responsibility in ensuring that our environment is not a trigger for disaster. This includes avoiding building on waterways and keeping our drainages free of waste,” he urged.
As flooding becomes an increasingly common occurrence across Nigeria due to climate change, the visit by the NEMA Director General highlights the growing importance of disaster management and prevention strategies at both the federal and state levels.
The collaboration between NEMA and the Ondo State government serves as a blueprint for other states in managing disaster risks, especially as communities face the dual challenges of extreme weather events and environmental degradation.
Mrs. Umar’s visit concluded with a commitment to intensifying efforts to mitigate the risks of future floods.
The NEMA Director General reassured the state that the federal government remains fully committed to supporting all states in disaster preparedness and response efforts. The visit has sparked renewed hope that with improved collaboration, Ondo State will be better equipped to handle future emergencies and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of its residents.
