NEMA urges Cross River residents to heed NiMet forecasts amid flood relief exercise

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called on residents of Cross River State to strictly follow weather forecasts issued by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of flooding in the region.

The appeal was made by NEMA Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, during a relief-material distribution exercise in Calabar on Monday. Speaking through Mrs.

Mmandu Aisueni, NEMA’s Head of Operations in Uyo, Umar stressed that environmental negligence contributes significantly to flood severity.

She urged residents to adopt eco-friendly practices such as proper waste disposal and avoiding the obstruction of water channels.

“The observance of forecasts and environmental care can significantly reduce flood risks,” she said.

She added that NEMA, in collaboration with the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, the Red Cross, and local community leaders, had conducted an assessment of the state to identify flood-affected households.

Community leaders played a key role in ensuring fair selection of beneficiaries, with at least five individuals from each community receiving aid.

The relief items distributed included rice, spaghetti, salt, and seasoning, and were reserved exclusively for verified victims of the 2025 flooding.

Mr. Bassey Akiba, member of the House of Representatives representing Calabar Municipality and Odukpani Federal Constituency, noted that the relief materials were part of the Federal Government’s support for flood victims.

“We are distributing 300 packs in the first phase, with more to follow as additional supplies arrive,” he said.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture. Mr. Offiong Eyo described the relief package as a “huge source of support and relief” for affected families.

NEMA had previously conducted similar relief exercises in communities within Akamkpa Local Government Area, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to flood preparedness and community support across Cross River State.