From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA), is partnering with the Ministry of Environment and National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) to prepare for possible flood disasters during this year’s raining season.
The Executive Secretary of the Agency, Alhaji Mouktar Atimah in an interview with Our Correspondent, said the agency is implementing proactive measures across the 21 local government areas of the state to mitigate the impacts of flooding should incase it occurs.
According to the Executive Secretary, inorder not to be taken unaware, his agency during a recent strategic meeting in Lokoja, with key stakeholders from the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA) and the Ministry of Environment, delibrated on lasting solutions such as improved drainage systems, environmental sanitation, and awareness campaigns.
Atimah affirmed that KOSEMA recognizes the Ministry of Environment’s crucial role in disaster management, particularly in flood prevention.
He recalled the commendation of the State’s Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Joseph Oluwaseun, on KOSEMA’s efforts and stressed the importance of regular meetings to address challenges in disaster management.
“Also, KOSEMA met with the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPADEC) to discuss the 2024 flood predictions released by NIMET.
“The team emphasized HYPPADEC’s vital role in disaster management and sought their support in mitigating the impending flood.
“Engr. Joan Oguche, the State Coordinator for HYPPADEC, acknowledged the agency’s importance in disaster management and pledged support, synergy, and collaboration as requested by KOSEMA.
“Mr. Michael Omeiza Ajayi, the Area Officer in HYPPADEC, shared the commission’s intervention programs for flood victims, including relief support, medical outreaches, skill acquisition schemes, and rehabilitation of affected buildings.
“Through these collaborative efforts, the Kogi State Government is demonstrating its dedication to protecting its communities and reducing the impact of future flood disasters” Atimah told Our Correspondent.
