The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Enugu Operations Office has joined the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, Onitsha Area Office for a second quarter safety sensitization campaign on waterways and flood preparedness along the River Niger.
The campaign, held at the Otuocha waterfront in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State, targeted farmers, traders, boat operators, and other community members who travel along the River Niger daily.
The sensitization was aimed at enlightening residents on flood preparedness and precautionary measures, reducing the impact and losses associated with flooding, and protecting lives, properties, and the environment.
Speaking at the event, the Acting Head of NEMA Enugu Operations Office, Mrs. Priscilla Madukwe, advised the community to adhere to early warning signs and utilize flood prevention, protection, and preparedness measures. She urged residents to do everything within their power to protect their lives, properties, businesses, assets, and environment against flood disasters.
Mrs. Madukwe, who was represented by Mrs. Ebere Ugwu, Chief Human Resources Management Officer, particularly advised farmers, business owners, and landlords to acquire risk insurance.
Also speaking, the Area Manager of NIWA Onitsha Area Office, Sir Victor Nwokocha, stressed the importance of teamwork in promoting safety of lives and the environment. He emphasized the mandatory use of life jackets before sailing and urged the community to remain highly cautious while enhancing their flood preparedness and mitigation strategies.
The President General of Umuoba Anam, Honourable Uche Anizoo, commended NIWA, NEMA and other stakeholders. He urged farmers to harvest their crops between July and August, before the flooding becomes severe, to prevent agricultural losses.
Speaking on behalf of the Otuocha community, boat operator Mr. Okonkwo Onuogu thanked NIWA, NEMA and other stakeholders for their continuous efforts and commitment to building flood-resilient communities.
Other highlights of the programme included the distribution of 120 life jackets to boat operators and passengers, alongside goodwill messages from various stakeholders.
