The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved new funding for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and pertinent ministries to improve Nigeria’s flood preparedness and disaster response in anticipation of the 2025 rainy season.
The decision was made on Thursday at the NEC meeting led by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The council has called for immediate financial assistance to be provided to essential federal ministries and agencies, along with state and local emergency services, to prevent future occurrences of devastating floods.
During a conversation with journalists following the meeting, Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, stated that the intervention will extend beyond federal agencies. It will also encompass assistance for all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and their State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs).
He said, “This year, we have once again been mandated to put together an intervention programme that will provide tangible and meaningful support for flood prevention and relief efforts. Funding will go to NEMA and related ministries such as Water Resources, Environment, and Budget and Economic Planning.
“Flooding is a shared challenge and requires a whole-of-society approach. All tiers of government must be fully involved, from enforcement of planning laws to equipping emergency response teams.
“The goal is better coordination and preparedness among federal, state, and local actors. We are building on the groundwork laid last year and ensuring the momentum is sustained.”