Anambra activates emergency response, relocates residents from flood-prone areas

The Anambra State government has initiated immediate evacuation procedures for residents living in flood-prone areas due to the sudden and significant rise in water levels of the Niger and Benue rivers over the past few days.

The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Chief Paul Odenigbo made the revelation during a press briefing in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State on Friday.

The urgent measure according to the reports gathered by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), aims to ensure the safety of those living in flood-prone areas.

Earlier on October 17, 2024, the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) issued an urgent alert directing coastal communities to relocate immediately.

Chief Odenigbo confirmed that the state government has provided adequate support for relocating individuals to safer zones, minimizing the escalating effects of the floods amidst ongoing rainfall.

He stated that certain local governments have completed arrangements to utilize boats for evacuating over 3,000 residents willing to relocate to higher ground.

According to him, Governor Charles Soludo has provided essential supplies to individuals in various holding camps throughout the state, ensuring their comfort and well-being during their stay.

He said “Soludo’s administration has distributed relief materials including blankets, mattresses, buckets, and hygiene products to Ogbaru, Anambra West, and Ayamelum local government areas of the state.”

The SEM Secretary affirmed that the camps have been thoroughly equipped with essential amenities, reliable water supply, and requisite logistics, courtesy of the government.

Odenigbo advised the public to take heed of the latest warnings issued by relevant agencies and to assemble essential items, including vital documents and medications, necessary for their stay in the camps.

Floods in Anambra State

Floods in Anambra State have been a recurring issue, causing devastation to communities and livelihoods.

History of Floods

In 2012, Anambra State experienced a devastating flood that affected 57 communities in eight local government areas, damaging 117,148 farms and agro-based businesses.

According to the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the state’s location makes it prone to flooding, especially during heavy rainfall when the Cameroonian authorities release water from the Lagdo Dam.

Recent Floods

The 2022 flood was recorded as the most devastating since the state started experiencing floods, affecting seven out of the 21 local government areas.

The affected areas included Ogbaru, Anambra East, and Anambra West, with 35,074 individuals in 6,980 households affected.

Also, in the year 2024, Anambra experienced another flood which affected residents of Ayamelum, Anambra East, and Anambra West.

Government Response

The state government has taken proactive measures to mitigate the effects of flooding in the state.

The measures include evacuating residents from flood-prone areas and providing support to affected communities.

Also, the government has also warned residents of Ayamelum, Anambra East, and Anambra West to take necessary precautions due to the flood.

Prevention and Preparedness

According to the National Orientation Agency (NOA), to minimize the impact of floods, it is essential for residents to stay informed about weather updates and flood warnings.

SEMA in Anambra State

The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in Anambra is a crucial organization that plays a vital role in managing disasters and emergencies in the state.

Objective

SEMA’s primary objective is to coordinate resources towards efficient and effective disaster prevention, preparedness, mitigation, and response in Anambra.

Key Functions

The agency formulates policies on all activities relating to disaster management in the state.

Also, it coordinates plans and programs for efficient and effective response to disasters and promotes research activities relating to disaster management.

Besides the NEMA in Anambra monitors and provide feedback to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the state of preparedness of all organizations that may contribute to disaster management within the state.

Response

The agency ensured that everything was brought under control, ensuring people that are affected were brought into safer areas.

Recommendations for Effective Disaster Management

NEMA suggested that building constructors in flood-prone areas should raise the ground floor level of their building projects to at least 1 meter above the ground level.

Additionally, it says using water-resistant materials and components, such as paints, doors, windows, and electrical fittings, can help mitigate damage from floods.

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