NEMA leads a campaign in Niger to promote disaster risk reduction and proper waste disposal amidst flood predictions for 2025. The initiative is aimed at educating local communities about the health hazards of improper waste management and preparing for natural disasters, calling for collaboration with local authorities for effective solutions.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Niger is conducting a sensitization campaign aimed at educating communities about disaster risk reduction and the importance of proper waste disposal. Hussaini Isah, the Head of NEMA’s Minna Operations Office, led the campaign in Anguwan Daji, collaborating with the NYSC-NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard, NISEPA, NSEMA, and Ajnu Venture.
The campaign follows predictions of potential flooding in 2025, as indicated by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Nigerian Hydrological Service Agency. Isah emphasized the necessity of preparedness and prompt response measures in the face of anticipated disasters. Ongoing sensitization efforts will continue throughout Minna metropolitan and into Kwara state.
Isah noted that improper waste disposal is a significant global challenge, significantly affecting urban areas in Nigeria, where litter and debris can obstruct drainage systems, thus exacerbating flooding risks. He urged the Niger state government to establish recycling facilities for better waste management.
Ahmed Abubakar, President of the NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard, highlighted that this initiative aims to raise awareness about the hazards of indiscriminate waste disposal, particularly in communities with children who may not recognize the associated health risks. Community leaders, including Alhaji Nasir Tanko, have advocated for designated waste disposal sites to discourage dumping in waterways.
Resident Zuwaira Hassan expressed concern over the discontinuation of previous waste collection services in Anguwan Daji, calling for urgent government action to mitigate health risks posed by ongoing indiscriminate waste dumping in drainage systems.
In summary, NEMA’s efforts underscore the critical need for disaster preparedness in light of the 2025 flood predictions. By educating communities on waste disposal and mitigation strategies, the agency aims to foster a proactive approach to environmental health. Continued collaboration with local organizations and government entities will be essential to implement effective waste management solutions and reduce the risk of flooding.
Original Source: nannews.ng
