Paragraph 1: In a proactive move to mitigate the devastating impact of anticipated floods in 2025, the National Economic Council (NEC) has allocated substantial financial resources to bolster the nation’s preparedness and response capabilities. A total of N24 billion has been earmarked for this critical endeavor, with a significant portion, N10 billion, designated for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). This substantial investment underscores the government’s recognition of the recurrent threat posed by floods and its commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure across the nation. The decision was made during the NEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Paragraph 2: The NEC’s strategic allocation of funds extends beyond NEMA to encompass other key stakeholders in disaster management. Recognizing the importance of a multi-faceted approach, the Council approved the disbursement of N3 billion each to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This decentralized funding strategy empowers local authorities to implement tailored flood mitigation measures specific to their respective regions. Furthermore, the Federal Ministries of Budget and National Planning, Environment, and Water Resources and Sanitation each received N1.5 billion. This allocation emphasizes the critical role of these ministries in coordinating national efforts for flood prevention and emergency response.
Paragraph 3: The impetus for this significant financial commitment stemmed from a comprehensive presentation delivered by NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, during the NEC meeting. Mrs. Umar’s briefing provided a detailed overview of the current flood situation across the country, highlighting areas of concern and outlining NEMA’s response strategies. Crucially, she articulated the agency’s preparedness plan for the 2025 flood season, encompassing ongoing risk assessments, early warning dissemination mechanisms, and coordinated response protocols. The NEC’s subsequent approval of the funding request signifies a strong endorsement of NEMA’s proactive approach and a shared commitment to minimizing the potential impact of future floods.
Paragraph 4: The allocation of N10 billion to NEMA will significantly enhance the agency’s capacity to execute its multifaceted flood response strategy. This substantial funding injection will enable NEMA to procure essential equipment, bolster logistical capabilities, and strengthen its human resource base. A key priority will be enhancing early warning systems and community engagement initiatives to ensure timely and effective communication of flood risks to vulnerable populations. Moreover, the funds will be utilized to pre-position relief materials and establish temporary shelters in strategic locations, thereby facilitating swift and efficient responses to flood emergencies.
Paragraph 5: The distribution of N3 billion each to the 36 states and the FCT represents a crucial element of the NEC’s decentralized approach to flood management. This funding will empower local authorities to undertake localized flood mitigation projects tailored to their specific needs and vulnerabilities. These projects may include the construction and reinforcement of drainage systems, the development of flood retention basins, and the implementation of community-based early warning systems. By empowering states and the FCT to take ownership of flood preparedness and response, the NEC aims to foster a more resilient and responsive national framework.
Paragraph 6: The allocation of N1.5 billion each to the Federal Ministries of Budget and National Planning, Environment, and Water Resources and Sanitation reflects the integral role these ministries play in the national flood management strategy. The Ministry of Budget and National Planning will utilize the funds to integrate flood risk considerations into national development plans and budgetary allocations. The Ministry of Environment will focus on strengthening environmental regulations and promoting sustainable land use practices to minimize the impact of floods. The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation will invest in improving water management infrastructure and implementing flood control measures. This collaborative approach, involving multiple government entities, aims to establish a comprehensive and integrated national framework for flood management. Mrs. Umar expressed gratitude for the NEC’s swift action and reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to utilizing the allocated funds transparently and effectively. She emphasized the agency’s dedication to collaboration with state governments, relevant ministries, agencies, and partners to ensure a coordinated and people-centred flood response across the nation.
