Simulation exercise in Anambra is; aimed at bolstering readiness in flood-vulnerable regions.
Survivors of the catastrophic floods that struck Anambra in 2012, 2022, and 2024 gathered on Friday to share their stories during a flood preparedness drill organized by the Red Cross Society in the Inoma Community, Anambra West Local Government Area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that these recurring floods have claimed lives, obliterated homes, and decimated farmlands, leaving communities struggling to recover.
The simulation, part of the Italian Government-funded Flood Resilience Project, is one of 12 such exercises aimed at bolstering readiness in flood-vulnerable regions.
Mr. Chukwudi Okeke, a youth leader and flood survivor from Inoma, recounted the devastating loss of his agricultural business. “The floods swept away our crops, livestock, and means of survival,” he said. “This Red Cross initiative is a lifeline, and we urge the government and organizations to continue this vital support.”
Mrs. Chinyere Udeh, a mother of four, shared her anguish, stating, “I lost my home, my farm, everything. I’ve never felt so powerless.” She described the dire conditions in temporary camps, where food shortages, poor sanitation, and disease risks were rampant.
“The Red Cross training is a game-changer—it’s teaching us how to prepare for future disasters,” she added.
Another resident, Mrs. Ngozi Ebele, a farmer, spoke of the relentless destruction caused by floods since 2012. “Every time the waters come, they swallow our homes, ruin our crops, and destroy property worth millions of naira,” she said.
“We’ve had to climb rooftops or escape by boat. Today’s drill showed us how to act swiftly and be our own first responders.”
Mr. Emeka Nwosu, Anambra Branch Secretary of the Red Cross, emphasized the importance of proactive planning.
“This exercise highlights the power of community training in mitigating disaster impacts,” he said. “With collaboration, we can save lives and reduce losses as climate-related crises intensify.”
Mrs. Amina Okafor, Senior Disaster Management Officer and Project Manager for the Flood Recovery and Resilience Project, outlined the initiative’s goals.
“Across 12 states, including Anambra, we’re empowering communities with knowledge and resources to navigate floods,” she explained.
“This includes upgrading public facilities, reinforcing water systems, and providing financial and technical aid to build resilience.”
The drill simulated a real-time flood emergency, incorporating early warning systems, community mobilization, rapid evacuations, boat-assisted rescues, and first aid response, offering practical skills to prepare residents for future floods. (NAN)
