By Ebenezer Mabinuola
To reduce the impact of seasonal flooding, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched the 2025 National Preparedness and Response Campaign (NPRC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The event, held at the Conference Hall of the Secretary to the State Government, brought together federal and state agencies, emergency responders, and community leaders. Representing the state government, Mr. Felix Asingbi, Permanent Secretary to the SSG, commended NEMA’s foresight and noted that Bayelsa had begun clearing waterways ahead of anticipated floods.
NEMA Director-General Mrs. Zubaida Umar emphasized community involvement and the need to protect lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Mr. Chidi Ogundu presented updated flood forecasts from NiMet and NIHSA, outlining preparedness responsibilities for governments and communities.
The campaign continued in Tombia, where the Nigerian Red Cross and Federal Fire Service conducted emergency response demonstrations, including Basic Life Support and fire safety. NEMA also donated a First Aid Box to the community.
Key participants included BYSEMA, the police, NSCDC, FRSC, and officials from health, agriculture, and environment ministries. Traditional leaders and local officials also attended.
The NPRC aims to strengthen disaster resilience in flood-prone states through early warnings, inter-agency coordination, and grassroots engagement.
