The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched a campaign in Niger to promote disaster risk reduction and proper waste disposal. This initiative responds to projected floods in 2025 and involves local communities, aiming for increased awareness and preparedness. The campaign addresses the critical issue of poor waste disposal and calls for government action to establish recycling facilities and alternative waste sites.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Niger has initiated a campaign to inform local communities about disaster risk reduction and proper waste disposal practices. Hussaini Isah, who oversees NEMA’s Minna Operations Office, conducted outreach in the Anguwan Daji community of Minna. This initiative collaborates with the NYSC-NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard, alongside NISEPA, NSEMA, and Ajnu Venture to facilitate public awareness.
This campaign arises in response to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMET) predictions regarding potential flooding in 2025. Isah stressed the need for effective mitigation strategies, asserting that preparedness must lead to prompt and efficient response measures in the event of flooding. He indicated that the initiative would expand its efforts throughout Minna metropolis and Kwara state.
Isah addressed the global challenge of inadequate waste disposal, which severely impacts Nigeria. He noted that littered environments contribute to obstructed drainages, exacerbating the risk of flooding. He appealed to the Niger state government to establish recycling facilities to improve waste management and disposal.
Ahmed Abubakar, President of the NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard, highlighted that the community faces significant health hazards due to indiscriminate refuse dumping, which could lead to flooding. He underscored their mission to educate community members, especially children, on the dangers associated with improper waste disposal.
Alhaji Nasir Tanko, the Community Head of Anguwan Daji, advocated for alternative waste disposal sites to mitigate indiscriminate dumping on water bodies. He recommended post-evacuation public education through media on the risks of obstructing drainage systems.
Additionally, Zuwaira Hassan, a resident of Anguwan Daji, lamented the discontinuation of local waste collection services. She urged the authorities to take immediate steps to resolve the refuse disposal issues, asserting that unchecked waste leads to health risks for the community.
In light of predictions about potential flooding in 2025, NEMA has embarked on a significant campaign emphasizing disaster risk reduction and improved waste disposal. Through educational initiatives, collaboration with various organizations, and community outreach, the agency aims to enhance awareness and preparedness. The call for governmental action regarding waste management underscores the urgency of addressing environmental hazards related to poor waste disposal practices. Prompt and effective measures will be essential to safeguard community health and mitigate flooding risks in Niger.
Original Source: nannews.ng
