Flood: NEMA builds internally displaced persons camps in Adamawa

Statistics released by the Agency revealed that flood had in 2012 affected seven million people and destroyed or damaged 597,476 houses leading to loss of an estimated 2.6 trillion naira nationwide.Speaking to Daily Trust in Yola, the Zonal Director of NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Kanar said the Agency had just set up an Internally Displaced Persons […]

Statistics released by the Agency revealed that flood had in 2012 affected seven million people and destroyed or damaged 597,476 houses leading to loss of an estimated 2.6 trillion naira nationwide.
Speaking to Daily Trust in Yola, the Zonal Director of NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Kanar said the Agency had just set up an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Demsa which was the worst affected local government area in 2012 to quickly accommodate victims in the event of disaster. Camps were also provided in Madagali and Yola South Local government areas.
He pointed out that the steps were necessary in view of the predictions by relevant authorities of heavy down pour this season with Adamawa fingered as one of the states expected to be worst hit in 2013.
“There is prediction of heavy rainfall this year and that can lead to flood which is a natural phenomenon.  We therefore work to reduce the impact so that even if it happens the effect will be less severe on people. We are here to sensitize the vulnerable communities and build three IDP camps before the incidence,” he said.
According to him, NEMA was assessing the level of preparation by the State government and other stakeholders in tackling the flood issue which threaten several communities along the banks of River Benue, urging all stakeholders to contribute adequately towards the success of the disaster control efforts.
He noted the importance of collaboration in tackling disaster issues, adding that the Agency seeks to involve local government councils as partners in the effort to protect lives and properties and assist victims to live healthy lives.
The zonal coordinator flagged off the four- day activities with the meeting of stakeholders in Yola, commissioning of three IDP camps and a flood awareness bill board erected by the NEMA/NYSC EMV community development service group.