Kaduna Flood: Victims to Smile as NEMA Commences Distribution of Relief Materials

Kaduna Flood: Victims to Smile as NEMA Commences Distribution of Relief Materials

Zainab Tanimu

Kaduna, North-West, NIGERIA  

With the National Emergency Management Agency’s (NEMA) prompt action and commencement of the distribution of relief materials to flood victims in Kaduna, hopes of residents once again have been reassured.

The Director General of the Agency, Engr. Mustapha Maihaja in company of his team took a tour of affected areas to see things for himself.

Worried by the deplorable situation of those affected in Ungwa Romi, Karatudu, Gonin Gora and Kigo Road new extension the DG directed that immediate relief materials be extended to assuage their sufferings.

The Director Search and Rescue in the Agency, represented by Air commodore Akugbe Iyamu , said they have been monitoring the rise in water level around Kaduna and as at yesterday, “we were not too comfortable with the situation, that is why the DG has to dispatch this high level team to come and do an assessment and also commence this aspect of relief to those affected.

“You went round and saw the pathetic situation and that is what necessitate what we are doing now, the distribution of relief materials.

“You saw the damage done and the situation those people are in. So we are giving out what we feel is important to the people at this moment, blankets, corn, rice, mattresses, cement, detergents, immediate needs that will make them comfortable now.”

On the amount of the items, he said “We are not looking at the value of anything now, we are only interested in giving succor to those in need. What I can tell you is that the DG is sparing no amount, he just wants to make sure that these people are giving a sense of belonging and a level of decency before we consider any other thing”.

Speaking shortly after receiving the items from NEMA for onward distribution, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, (SEMA) Ben Kure who went round with the NEMA team promised that government will soon take measures against those building and living along the Kaduna river and water ways.

Kure said, “We appreciate the quick response from the DG NEMA and we have received the gesture unbehalf of the Governor of Kaduna state,

“Going forward adequate measures will be put in place to make sure this does not happen again, and also to reduce the damage to the barest minimum. We are also appealing to the people especially those living by the water ways to begin to think of what next to avoid this kind of situation.

“It doesn’t work well to be running away and coming back, a permanent decision should be taken, because no amount of money that cannot be spent to secure life. It is important that people listen to this appeal. Certain measures are also going to be enforced as regards siting homes near the river or on water ways, because we are a government that cares about the people.” He said.