The Rivers State Flood Prevention and Management Committee has appealed for urgent Federal Government intervention as heavy rains continue to threaten several communities.
At a recent meeting in Port Harcourt, the committee, chaired by the Deputy Governor, said the state government has taken proactive steps but lacks the capacity to manage large-scale flooding alone.
“We are safeguarding lives and property, but this challenge requires national support,” the Deputy Governor said. “Federal assistance in funding, logistics, and technical expertise is crucial.”
The committee listed key priorities such as clearing blocked drains, reinforcing riverbanks, relocating residents in flood-prone areas, and strengthening emergency response systems.
It urged agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Ministry of Environment to collaborate more closely with the state to improve flood monitoring and relief efforts.
The appeal follows warnings from the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) that Rivers is among 15 states likely to experience major flooding this season.
Despite ongoing state efforts, several riverine communities have already recorded flash floods, leading to displacement and crop losses. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
