On 19th June 2025, the Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong, led participants and stakeholders through the second day of activities for the flood response simulation exercise in Anambra State. The day featured paper presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at deepening understanding of flood disaster preparedness and strengthening collaborative response strategies.
The first paper, “An Overview of the National Contingency Plan (NCP),” was delivered by Mr. Daniel Atabo of NEMA Headquarters, followed by a panel discussion led by the Director of Search and Rescue. The panel included the Executive Secretaries of Anambra and Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMA), the Head of NEMA Imo Operations Office, and the paper presenter. Stakeholders engaged in a productive Q&A session with the panelists.
The second paper, “Displacement and Sheltering for IDPs and Refugees,” was presented by Mr. Eugene Nyelong, AD SAR-Ops (NEMA HQ). The subsequent plenary session, also chaired by the Director of Search and Rescue, included representatives from Anambra SEMA, Ebonyi SEMA, the Nigerian Red Cross Ogbaru, and the presenter. The panel responded to questions and considered suggestions from community members.
A discussion on exercise preparations was facilitated by Mr. Yohana Aliyu, ACMO and SIMEX planning committee member. He introduced the simulation exercise, codenamed “EX IDE MMILI ODACHI,” highlighting its focus on testing response capabilities across three tiers — community, sub-national, and national levels. Mr. Aliyu encouraged participants to take ownership of the process and contribute actively to building resilience within their communities.
The day concluded with a briefing for a pre-event rehearsal, scheduled for the following day, in preparation for the main exercise slated for Saturday, 21st June 2025.
