By: Hamza Yakubu
In a proactive move to enhance flood management capabilities, the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA) joined forces with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to organize a stakeholders’ workshop on flood awareness and management. The event aimed to analyze past flood incidents, assess current preparedness, identify gaps, and develop a comprehensive action plan to improve disaster management in Kogi State.
The workshop, which took place on 4th June 2024 at the Edge Drive Hotel in Lokoja, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Commissioner for Water Resources, Commissioner of Urban and Housing Development, Commissioner of Agriculture, Commissioner of Environment, Commissioner of Humanitarian Services, Nigeria Naval Base (Banda), traditional rulers, Chairman of Kogi State Coalition of NGOs, FERMA, HYPADEC, and Local Government Chairmen from flood-prone areas.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Mukhtar Atimah, Executive Secretary of KOSEMA, emphasized the importance of preparing for flood-related issues in the state. He encouraged open dialogue and innovative thinking among participants to build a safer, more resilient Kogi State. “The need to prepare ourselves against flood issues in the State has become imperative. Hence, the need to organize this timely workshop to orientate ourselves and prepare for any flood disaster,” he stated.
The Commissioner of Water Resources commended KOSEMA for initiating the workshop, which will help prepare major stakeholders to manage flood cases effectively. “This workshop will give heads-up to major stakeholders in preparing the general public towards managing any flood case,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Comfort Egwaba, lauded the initiative and pledged the assembly’s support to KOSEMA. “The state assembly has put in place legislative efforts to mitigate the effects of flooding in Kogi State, and we are committed to supporting KOSEMA in its endeavors,” she said.
The Maigari of Lokoja and other stakeholders also expressed their appreciation for the event and committed to taking the lessons learned to the general public. “We urge all NGOs and CSOs to take the lessons of this workshop to the doorstep of flood-prone houses,” the Maigari said.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to share experiences, expertise, and resources to enhance flood management in Kogi State. By working together, the state can better prepare for and respond to flood-related disasters, reducing the risk of damage and loss of life.
The stakeholders identified the need for public awareness and education, infrastructure development, and emergency preparedness as key areas to focus on. They also agreed to establish a flood management committee to coordinate efforts and ensure effective implementation of the action plan.
The workshop was a significant step towards building a more resilient Kogi State, and the stakeholders are committed to working together to achieve this goal. By leveraging their collective expertise and resources, they can reduce the impact of flooding and create a safer, more sustainable future for the people of Kogi State.
