The Anambra State Government has taken proactive measures by providing training for members of emergency management committees. This training is aimed at preparing them to effectively handle and contain potential flood disasters that have been predicted.
Chief Paul Odenigbo, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, emphasized the significance of this training during a session held at the Anambra East headquarters in Otuocha on Saturday.
The training was specifically designed for local emergency management committees and certain healthcare personnel in the state’s 10 flood-prone local government areas.
Odenigbo, represented by Mrs. Rita Omega, an administrative officer in the agency, highlighted that the training was a crucial part of the state’s readiness strategy given the predictions made by relevant agencies about potential flooding in Anambra and 31 other states across the country.
He reassured that the agency had already conducted awareness campaigns in riverine areas and encouraged residents to be prepared to relocate to safer areas when necessary, as arrangements were in place for their relocation.
Mr. Kennedy Eke, representing the National Emergency Management Agency, Enugu Zone, stressed the importance of staying alert and notifying relevant state and federal agencies in case of increasing water levels in riverine areas.
Dr. Anselem Onuorah, the Transition Committee Chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, acknowledged the lessons learned from the 2022 flood incident and noted that the local government was committed to rectifying any shortcomings.
He mentioned improvements planned for hygiene, medical care in camps, and the engagement of volunteer health workers to assist vulnerable groups.
Mr. Hezekiah Samuel, Assistant Field Coordinator of the International Organization for Migration in Anambra State, explained that the training aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge to effectively respond as first responders during potential flood emergencies.
The training featured a practical demonstration of the first responder’s role in evacuating flood victims, conducted by a team from the Nigeria Red Cross Society.
