Agency Urges Anambra State Communities to Implement Flood Prevention Measures

The Anambra state directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Awka has launched an urgent flood safety alert campaign targeting communities prone to flooding in Ayamelum, Anambra East, and Anambra West Local Government Areas.

During separate addresses at the local government headquarters in Anaku, Otuocha, and Nzam, Mr. Edozie Ajaegbu, the Anambra State Director of NOA, emphasized the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the annual flooding that devastates these communities. He advised residents on the necessity of desilting drainage systems around their homes and avoiding construction near water channels to reduce their vulnerability to flooding.

As part of the campaign, the Director distributed informational flyers outlining effective flood prevention strategies. He encouraged residents to familiarize themselves with the seasonal patterns of flooding in their area and to take appropriate actions to protect themselves and their properties.

Mr. Remigus Obi, Deputy Director of Programmes at NOA Awka, highlighted a critical development: the Cameroonian authorities have released water from the Lagdo Dam, which is expected to exacerbate flooding in Nigeria. He warned that the current flooding is projected to impact eleven states, including Anambra, with Ayamelum, Anambra East, and Anambra West being some of the most vulnerable areas. He urged community members to assist NOA in informing others about the need to evacuate flood-prone areas to safeguard lives and property.

Further reinforcing the message, Barrister Ifeoma Chijioke, Deputy Director of Administration at NOA Awka, and Mr. Obiorah Ignatius, Assistant Director of Programmes, expressed their concern over the devastating effects of flooding, which has already submerged rice farms, palm trees, and homes. They called upon community leaders to educate residents about timely crop cultivation to mitigate losses associated with flooding.

In support of the initiative, Mrs. Ngozi Udozor, Special Adviser to the Executive Chairman of Anambra East, Mr. Nwauba Paul, President-General of Anaku Community, and Mrs. Nkerika Ndife, Deputy Chairperson of Anambra West Local Government Area, affirmed the importance of public education and awareness in preventing flood-related disasters.

Councillors Mr. Neche Odigbo and Mr. Emmanuel Moukwe from Otuocha and Aguleri-Otu wards, respectively, appealed to the federal government for sustainable flood management solutions. They called for the construction of irrigation systems, as well as damming and dredging of the Niger and Benue Rivers to manage the floodwaters from the Lagdo Dam effectively.

Additionally, the Anglican Bishop of Niger East, Right Reverend Obiorah Ugochukwu, was represented by Venerable Peter Attaje during the event at the Anambra West Local Government headquarters in Nzam.

The NOA campaign aims to equip communities with the knowledge and tools to face the impending flood season with resilience and preparedness.