The National Economic Council (NEC) has formally endorsed a comprehensive framework designed to address the ongoing issue of flooding throughout Nigeria.
This follows the presentation of the draft framework by National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu at the meeting of the Council, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Briefing Journalists at the end of the meeting, Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum said the comprehensive framework provides for medium and long-term measures that can be taken to help mitigate flooding.
Governor Zulum said: “The issue of flooding is becoming one of the worrisome phenomena in Nigeria and therefore, today the Council was briefed by the National Security Adviser on an anticipatory action framework for riverine flooding in the country.
“The objectives of the anticipatory framework include protecting vulnerable households, enabling timely and dignified interventions for flood victims and focusing on security; ensuring no community is left behind.
“Most importantly, the Council considered the inclusion of measures that will be taken to ensure medium and long-term sustainable solutions that will prevent flooding or reduce it, rather than the short-term non-sustainable solutions.”
Govenror Zulum stated that the council also suggested an expansion of the scope of the framework.
He said; “Council commended the office of the National Security Adviser for the good work done, as reflected in the presentation, describing the framework as comprehensive and visionary.
“However, the Council resolved that the scope of the framework has to be widened to include more states and submit the final document for ratification.”
Governor Zulum said State governments were advised to step up enlightenment on the dangers of flood through their radio stations and sustained town hall meetings.
They urged to strengthen their emergency management agencies, to curb the menace of flood.