FG adopts preventative approach to flood management
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has announced that Nigeria’s approach to flood management has shifted from reactive disaster relief to proactive preparedness.
Shettima made this statement on Tuesday during a meeting of the Anticipatory Action Task Force (AATF) on Floods at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
He stressed that the conventional method of mobilising aid only after floods occur is no longer sustainable.
According to the Vice-President, this new strategy aligns with global frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
He further explained that the initiative prioritises early preparedness to mitigate the devastating effects of natural disasters and safeguard vulnerable communities.
“We cannot continue to wait for disasters to unfold before taking action. The human and financial costs of flooding in Nigeria have become intolerable,” Shettima stated.
“We must act decisively to protect lives and livelihoods by harnessing science, technology, and collaborative efforts.”
“Prevention is always more cost-effective than response. Investing in proactive measures today will prevent billions in future losses.”
He emphasised the need for strengthened coordination among government agencies, active engagement with local communities, and reliance on real-time data to enhance preparedness.
Earlier in the meeting, Mohammed Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, noted that the recent suspension of humanitarian funding by the United States should serve as a wake-up call for international organisations to operate more efficiently.
He stressed that transitioning from reactive aid to forward-thinking interventions is essential.
“As we approach the rainy season, we must consider these challenges and ensure that our response strategies are timely and effective,” he remarked.
Mrs Zubaida Umar, Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness framework.
She highlighted the development of the Hazard Risk Countrywide Analysis, a document designed to enhance Nigeria’s resilience to flooding.
“We have established a national coordination platform, bringing together all relevant stakeholders to ensure optimal preparedness,” Umar stated.
“This initiative is based on the seasonal climate forecasts from NiMET, enabling all agencies to remain on high alert.”
