The federal government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), on Friday in Calabar, conducted a full-scale flood disaster simulation to strengthen preparedness and emergency response.

The simulation exercise, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank, was carried out in partnership with the Cross River Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), other relevant agencies, and local communities.

Zubaida Umar, director general of NEMA, said the exercise demonstrated coordinated actions required before, during and after flooding to minimise loss of lives, livelihoods and property.

Represented by Aliyu Waziri, director of internal audit, NEMA, Ms Umar said the agency prioritised preparedness, community resilience and early action instead of waiting for disasters before responding.

“The nationwide simulation complemented ongoing sensitisation campaigns which equipped communities, volunteers and emergency responders to evacuate residents, coordinate rescue operations and support recovery efforts,” she said.

Governor Bassey Otu of the state described the simulation as impressive, saying it showcased NEMA’s operational capacity in flood rescue and emergency response.

Mr Otu, represented by Anthony Owan-Enoh, secretary to the state government, said the state would strengthen its SEMA as many communities across the state remained vulnerable to flooding and required sustained preparedness measures.

“The state government would temporarily use primary schools and community halls as shelters for displaced persons, while seeking greater federal government support for flood and landslide victims,” he said.

He urged residents to heed safety advisories, expressing confidence that stronger collaboration with the federal government would reduce the devastating effects of recurring floods and related disasters.

Similarly, Efa Nyong, director-general of SEMA, described the exercise as impactful, noting that it came barely one month after he assumed office amid increasing weather-related emergencies.

Mr Nyong said the agency would soon begin statewide sensitisation through billboards, radio jingles and community town criers to improve public awareness and disaster preparedness.

He said the state governor’s support had strengthened emergency management efforts, adding that sustained public enlightenment would encourage residents to respond appropriately during disasters.

Also, Julius Ogbobe, deputy director, search and rescue, Defence Headquarters, commended NEMA, SEMA and local communities for the successful exercise, describing the coordination as beyond expectations.

Mr Ogbobe urged organisers to improve community mobilisation in future exercises, saying greater participation by residents of flood-prone communities would enhance preparedness and strengthen emergency response capacity.

Residents lauded the federal and state governments for the simulation and distribution of relief materials, and appealed for the inclusion of more households in subsequent exercises. 

(NAN)