As heavy rainfall continues across the country, the Anambra State Government has commenced comprehensive precautionary efforts to mitigate the impact of potential flooding across both riverine and upland communities.
Speaking to journalists at his office in the State Secretariat, Awka, the Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odimegwu, revealed that the Ministry has already rolled out a series of early-warning systems and sensitization campaigns in line with seasonal rainfall predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
“We are fully prepared to ensure the safety of our people. Our warnings are updated weekly, and we are emphasizing public awareness to guide residents through this critical season,” Odimegwu said.
The Commissioner highlighted the importance of public cooperation, especially in keeping drainages and water channels free from obstruction.
He stressed that flooding can be significantly reduced if residents take simple but effective steps to ensure water flows freely through existing infrastructure.
Odimegwu also noted that Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has prioritized flood response, establishing multi-sectoral committees headed by Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim.
These committees comprise representatives from the Ministries of Environment, Health, Information, and Education, as well as local government mayors and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
“These bodies are tasked with early planning and strategic action to ensure swift responses to any emergencies,” Odimegwu stated.
According to the Commissioner, weekly early-warning notices are sent to stakeholders, including local government officials and committee members, to help them activate their localized emergency response teams.
“These warnings are not only for government agencies. They are crucial for farmers, who can use the information to harvest crops ahead of floods, and for residents, civil servants, traders, artisans, who can adjust their routines to stay safe,” he emphasized.
Addressing reports of rising water levels in parts of Ogbaru, Odimegwu expressed concern that many residents tend to ignore warnings until floodwaters reach critical levels. He urged those in vulnerable areas to begin relocating to higher ground immediately to avoid loss of life and property.
In anticipation of displacement, the state has begun preparations for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, with the Commissioner assuring that resources are in place to provide shelter and relief.
He also confirmed that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has begun sending relief materials from the Federal Government, which will be distributed by local government officials under strict supervision.
Meanwhile, farmers in flood-prone zones have already begun emergency harvesting of their crops, he added.
Odimegwu concluded by calling for heightened cooperation from the public, “We all have a role to play in preventing disaster. The earlier we act, the more lives and livelihoods we save.”