Governor Charles Soludo’s government has appealed for fresh intervention from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to tackle flooding in Anambra.

Deputy Governor Gilbert Ibezim made the call when he visited the NEMA director-general Mustapha Ahmed in Abuja.

He said NEMA plays a vital role in supporting the state in managing the growing impact and threats of floods, hence the appeal for more support even as the water tides are rising in Anambra.

Giving insights on the flood-prone areas in the state and the potential risks associated with the rainy season, he called on proactive measures to mitigate flood-related disasters, protect lives, and safeguard property.

He said there was a need to deploy resources, personnel, and equipment for effective flood response and a well-coordinated approach, early warning systems, and community engagement to enhance disaster preparedness and management in Anambra.

The deputy governor expressed their commitment to working closely with the agency to ensure the safety and resilience of the state’s communities during the flood season.

Mr Ahmed said the agency would look into the challenge in Anambra to find solutions to tackle the challenge.

“Your visit to NEMA is a significant moment and a practical display of efforts towards building strong collaboration between Anambra state and NEMA on disaster risk management and building of community resilience. This becomes more important in the face of significant disasters and crisis situations in Nigeria just as obtained in several countries of the world,” the NEMA boss explained.

He added, “Your excellency, we don’t pray for disasters to happen, yet disasters, crises and emergency situations are part and parcel of societal revolution throughout the history of mankind.”

Most disasters, Mr Ahmed said, can be averted and mitigated with simple, deliberate actions; avoiding refuse dumping in waterways and drainages in our cities can reduce urban flooding drastically.

(NAN)