NEMA assesses flood impact in Anambra, Bayelsa

The National Emergency Management Agency announced on Wednesday that it had conducted assessments of the flood impacts in Anambra and Bayelsa States as part of its flood preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for this year.

The assessments were carried out in collaboration with State Emergency Management Agencies, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, and the International Organisation for Migration.

Last week, residents of no fewer than 600 houses in flood-prone communities across Anambra State were displaced as their buildings were submerged following rising water levels from the River Niger and other related activities.

Recently, residents of Bayelsa State were alarmed as intensifying floods, exacerbated by persistent heavy rainfall, disrupted local communities.

A statement from NEMA’s spokesperson, Manzo Ezekiel, said, “In Anambra, NEMA focused on eight Local Government Areas—Ogbaru, Anambra East, Anambra West, Ayamelum, Awka North, Ihiala, Idemili South, and Ekwusigo.

“The assessments aimed to evaluate the extent of the damage, including the number of affected households, fatalities, missing persons, and the destruction of homes and farmland. Chief Paul Odenigbo, the Executive Secretary of Anambra SEMA, expressed appreciation for NEMA’s response.

“In Bayelsa, the assessment covered 54 communities across seven LGAs: Sagbama, Kulokuma/Opokuma, Southern Ijaw, Ogbia, Ekeremor, Yenagoa, and Brass. Some of the communities visited include Asamabiri, Kaiama, Amasoma, Toron Ndoro, and Igbogene, among others. The Bayelsa SEMA was represented by Director Dr. Dio Wenapere, who led the state’s team in working alongside NEMA.”

The statement noted that the Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, emphasised the importance of harmonising data with SEMAs and partners to accurately assess the scale of the disaster, ensuring a more coordinated and effective response.

Umar reassured the public that NEMA remains committed to efficient disaster management and will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to provide necessary support where needed.