By CHIDI MATTHEW NWACHUKWU

The Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), has latched on the predictions and warnings of possible flooding in some states by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), to call for a quick government and stakeholders? intervention in mitigating the anticipated impact of flooding in Abia State.

The call was contained in a statement signed by the group?s Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor.

In the statement, the group called on the Abia State government to implement early mitigation and adaptation strategies towards responding promptly to the Federal Government?s alert that Abia and 30 other states might be greatly affected by the expected flooding, further stressing the need for studying vulnerable communities towards carrying out targeted interventions and enhancing resilience against climate-induced disasters.

?Following warnings by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) that flood will ravage many states of the federation in 2025, the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) has called on the Abia State Government to implement early mitigation and adaptation strategies in response to the Federal Government's alert that 31 states, including Abia, are at high risk of flooding in 2025.

?FENRAD emphasizes the need for a comprehensive baseline study of vulnerable communities to inform targeted interventions and enhance resilience against climate-induced disasters,? the statement read.

The statement, however, highlighted the steps already taken by the Federal Government in creating awareness amongst people at the grassroots, on the likely impacts of the flooding, as well as getting them prepared for the said impacts.

?In alignment with these concerns, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated sensitization programs across all 17 local government areas of Abia State.

?These programs aim to downscale flood early warning strategies to the grassroots level, ensuring that communities are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to respond effectively to potential flooding events.

?The 2025 Annual Flood Outlook predicts high flood risks for 31 states and moderate risks for 35 states, underscoring the urgency of proactive measures,? the statement further read.

The statement highlighted the Abia State government?s plan towards containing the anticipated flood, further stressing the need for collaboration between the government and private sector in managing natural emergencies such as flooding.

?Governor Alex Otti has acknowledged the flood risks facing 11 out of Abia?s 17 LGAs and has pledged to address the issue through infrastructural development and community engagement.

?His administration aims to eliminate flooding in Aba within 18 months, focusing on constructing durable access roads and implementing a zero-pothole policy to improve drainage and reduce flood risks.

?FENRAD?s call to action underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities.

?By conducting baseline studies and implementing early mitigation strategies, Abia State can enhance its preparedness and resilience against the impending flood crisis,? the statement noted.

The remaining part of the statement reads:

?FENRAD emphasizes the necessity for both federal and state governments to implement early mitigation and adaptation strategies. These strategies should include the establishment of community-based early warning systems, enhancement of public awareness campaigns, and the development of flood-resilient infrastructure.

?The organization advocates for a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders to ensure sustainable development and the protection of human rights.

?In alignment with FENRAD?s recommendations, the Federal Government has activated several flood control measures. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has deployed experts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) to disseminate early warning messages across all states.

?Additionally, the government has inaugurated the National Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification Management Council (NFEDDMC) to coordinate disaster management strategies and enhance public awareness of climate resilience practices.

?The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) is committed to promoting environmental justice, sustainable development, and the protection of human and environmental rights in Nigeria.

?Our mandate includes:

? Environmental Sustainability.

? Advocating for policies and practices that promote responsible use of natural resources.

? Supporting green infrastructure and eco-friendly innovations in both urban and rural communities.

? Engaging communities and governments in sustainable land use, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.

? Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

? Promoting strategies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy advocacy, afforestation, and sustainable agriculture.

? Supporting local, evidence-based climate adaptation measures, including community resilience building, public awareness campaigns, and policy reforms.

? Working with stakeholders to integrate climate action into state and national development planning.

? Flood Control and Disaster Risk Reduction

? Calling for early warning systems, flood mapping, and risk assessments, especially in high-risk areas like Abia State.

? Urging governments to conduct baseline studies of flood-prone communities to guide data-driven interventions.

? Advocating for improved drainage systems, urban planning, and enforcement of environmental regulations to reduce flooding and displacement risks.

?FENRAD believes collaborative action between civil society, government agencies, and local communities is essential to address the urgent environmental and climate challenges Nigeria faces today.?