Anambra First Lady, Mr Nonye Soludo has asked those living in flood-prone communities in the state to immediately move to higher grounds following national predictions that flood is imminent.
Mrs Soludo who stated this in Awka, explained that the recent emergency notices released by both the federal and state governments, provide ample time to plan in order to minimize the ravages that could come with the natural disaster.
The governor’s wife also disclosed that the state government has already started making containment plans ahead of the incident, including engaging in collaborations with the federal government, local authorities and global partners.
She also assured that the state is prioritizing the safety of women, children and the elderly, with particular attention on containing any health, economic or social emergencies that could arise as a result of the flood.
While asking those residing in flood-prone communities in Anambra State to prepare to move to the upland, or designated holding facilities, Mrs Soludo said that waiting for the flood to happen before finding safety could be too risky.
She further urged leaderships of communities, churches and well-meaning individuals, to give assistance to those who would need them at this time.
Mrs Soludo also promised that her non-governmental movement, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, will also assess areas of needs to help those who may get affected by the surge.
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), recently identified 31 – including Anambra – as states with high-risk areas for significant flood impacts in 2024.
Anambra State government had also asked affected local government areas to prepare for the emergency situation by immediately moving upland or to designated holding camps.
The listed local government areas include: Anambra East, Anambra West, Ihiala, Ogbaru, Ayamelum, Awka North, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ekwusigo and Idemili North.
