SEMA Enhances Partnership with NIWA in Preparation for Upcoming Flooding »

In continuation of preparations ahead of the impending flooding prediction by NIMET, the Executive Secretary of Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alh Mouktar Atimah and his team on Wednesday paid a working visit to the Management of National Inland Waterway Authority (NIWA).

The SEMA Executive Secretary in his speech said that the visit was to strengthen institutional relationships and seek collaboration towards effective management of the impending 2024 flood disaster as predicted.

The Executive Secretary reiterated that the present administration led by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has charged SEMA to ensure effective management of the impacts of any forms of disaster, especially the impending flood.

He intimated the NIWA team on the NIMET’s Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) unveiled in February, 2024. He further stated that SEMA recognizes the crucial roles played by NIWA in disaster management.

Responding, the Managing Director NIWA who was represented by the General Manager, Ports and Environmental Services Unit, Engr. Agbahi Fidelis, appreciated SEMA for her efforts so far and describing the request for collaboration with NIWA as a step in the right direction noting that synergy between both agencies would lead to effective service delivery.

He noted that NIWA is up to date on the activities of SEMA particularly issues relating to the impending flood as predicted. He added that NIWA has the capacity and is ready to support SEMA in data sharing, awareness campaign and search and rescue during the flood. He further stressed the need for prompt communication between the two agencies.