NEMA conducts full-scale flood simulation exercise in Rivers

National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Monday advanced its 2025 flood preparedness and response strategy with the conduct of a full-scale flood simulation exercise in Rivers.

The exercise which was carried out with support of Rivers State Government in Mbiama, Ahoada West Local Government Area, was aimed at sensitizing communities at risk of flooding and strengthening coordinated response mechanisms in the state.

In her address, NEMA Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, said that the exercise was a proactive step towards safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and national assets.

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She said: “Flooding remains one of the most recurrent and devastating natural disasters in Nigeria. Beyond the loss of lives and property, it disrupts oil production and undermines the economy.

“The essence of this simulation exercise is not only to test our plans and protocols but also to identify gaps and strengthen our multi-agency collaboration towards building resilient communities.”

Mrs. Umar who was represented by the Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Dr. Onimode Bandele, further stressed that preparedness is the strongest defense against disasters.

“Today, we are simulating a crisis scenario to ensure that when it becomes reality, we are better positioned to save lives. Preparedness saves lives.

“Our ability to anticipate, respond, and recover quickly depends on how well we train and work together before disaster strikes,” she added.

In his remarks, River State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas appreciated NEMA’s partnership in organizing the exercise.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Worika, he disclosed that the State Government has commenced the process of establishing a State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide a permanent structure for disaster preparedness and response.

The State’s Administrator urged community members to remain vigilant and responsive to early warning alerts, while calling on Traditional Rulers, Faith Leaders, Civil Society Organizations, and the Media to act as grassroots messengers of disaster awareness and response mobilization.

On his part, NEMA’s Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong, who coordinated the simulation, said it was a practical demonstration of the NEMA Director General’s commitment to inclusive flood preparedness and response across the country.

He explained that the exercise, code-named ‘Exercise Iji Gbaje-Ugbo’, was specifically targeted at the most flood-prone communities across four LGAs of Rivers State, ensuring direct community engagement and practical demonstration of emergency response protocols.

Responding on behalf of the communities, Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Mr. Promise Jacob, expressed appreciation to NEMA and the Rivers State Government for bringing the flood sensitization exercise to their doorsteps, pledging the full cooperation of residents in mitigating the impacts of flooding.

The simulation exercise featured active participation of multiple stakeholders, including the personnel and assets of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Air Force, alongside first responders and local volunteers.