The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) successfully conducted a workshop today in Ondo State focused on downscaling flood early warning strategies to mitigate risks during the rainy season. The event was graced by top government officials and critical stakeholders in disaster management.
Mrs Zubaida Umar, the Director General of NEMA, was represented by Hajiya Fatima Kassim, Director Special Duties, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of proactive measures in managing flood risks. She highlighted the devastating impact of past floods and underscored the necessity for collaborative efforts across all levels of government and with communities to minimize future losses.
The workshop featured an address by the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Adelami mni who represented the Executive Governor, H.E.Lucky Aiyedatiwa , He acknowledged the recurrent challenges posed by floods in Ondo State and commended the proactive initiatives undertaken by NEMA and other agencies to enhance preparedness and response strategies.
The Executive Secretary of Ondo State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Mr. Orunko Frederick in his remarks appreciated participants and stakeholders for their commitment to strengthening disaster resilience in the state. He reiterated the state government’s dedication to implementing the recommendations from the workshop to safeguard lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure.
The highlight of the workshop was a presentation by Dr. Godwin Terpikor of NEMA on “Disaster Preparedness and Risk Reduction Strategies based on the outcomes of the 2024 seasonal climate prediction and Annual Flood Outlook.” Dr. Terpikor’s presentation identified states and local government areas (LGAs) at high risk of flooding and provided crucial recommendations on mitigative measures to manage the imminent flood threat. This presentation underscored the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding communities against potential disasters, emphasizing preparedness and strategic planning as essential components of disaster risk reduction.
Participants deliberated on sector-specific measures for disaster preparedness in agriculture, health, education, and transportation sectors, among others.
The workshop emphasized the imperative of community-wide participation in disaster risk management, echoing the theme that ‘disaster management is everyone’s business’. The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to implement actionable strategies aimed at reducing the impact of floods and ensuring sustainable socio-economic development in Ondo State.
Participants at the workshop were senior government officials, Royal father’s, religious leaders, partners, and community representatives. The workshop was aimed at engaging the participants and enlisting their support towards building a more resilient Ondo State, especially in preparation against flood that has been forcasted for this year by NiMet and NIHSA
25th June, 2024
