it is my honor and privilege to be in your midst on this very important capacity building programme preparatory to the flood disaster response simulation exercise in Ogbaru, Anambra State.
This exercise organized in collaboration with the Anambra State Government is a critical component of our collective preparedness efforts, aimed at enhancing coordination, communication and efficiency among all stakeholders in disaster managemeni in Nigeria. Essentially, Abia, Anambra and Imo States have been identified as flood-prone States in the South East region in the 2025 Seasonal Climate prediction by NIMET and the Annual Flood Outlook by NIHSA.
As we all know, flooding remains one of the most recurrent and devastating natural disasters in Nigeria with far-reaching impacts on lives, livelihoods, infrastructure and communities.
The recent flood disaster witnessed at Mokwa in Niger State attests to this fact. The essence of this simulation is not only to test our plans and protocols, but also to expose any gaps and strengthen our multi-agency collaboration.
Today, we are simulating a crisis so that we are better prepared to save lives when it becomes a reality, Let me reiterate that preparedness saves lives.
Our ability to anticipate, respond and recover quickly from disasters depends largely on how well we train and work together before disaster strikes. This simulation exercise is therefore a proactive step in the right direction.
As we go through this excrcise, | urge all participants to approach it with ‘professionalism and a learning mindset. This will enable us identify areas for
improvement and ensure that the lessons learnt would better equip us for future pians
and responses.
On behalf of the management and staff of NEMA, I thank you all for your dedication
and partnership in strengthening Nigeria’s disaster preparedness and response capacity. I also wish you all a successful simulation exercise.
God bless you all and long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
