By joshua Flood Preparedness: Society for Water and Sanitation Takes Advocacy To Adankolo Community
…Environment Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Flood Preparedness
The Ministry of Environment has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening flood preparedness and environmental sanitation across the state as the rainy season peaks.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, at the Flood Disaster Sensitization Programme organized by the Society for Water and Sanitation for residents of Adankolo Community.
The Commissioner commended the Society for Water and Sanitation for the timely initiative, noting that it aligns with flood forecasts recently issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
“This programme demonstrates our collective commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting livelihoods, preserving water sources, and ensuring the sustainability of sanitation facilities in our communities,” the message stated.
The Commissioner used the opportunity to reiterate the Ministry’s resolve to work closely with relevant agencies, development partners, community leaders, and other stakeholders to enhance disaster risk reduction, promote environmental sanitation, and build community resilience to flooding.
He also urged participants to take full advantage of the knowledge and practical lessons shared during the sensitization, and to become advocates of environmental responsibility in their respective communities.
“Together, through preparedness, public awareness, and collective action, we can significantly reduce the impact of flooding on our people and our environment,” he added.
The Ministry expressed appreciation to the Society for Water and Sanitation for organizing the impactful event and wished participants fruitful deliberations.
The sensitization comes amid heightened concerns over flooding across several states, with NiMet and NEMA warning of increased rainfall and potential flash floods in the coming weeks.
Earlier in her remarks, the State Coordinator for Society for Water and Sanitation, Mrs Roseline Alabi, said the advocacy and sensitization is geared towards the dangers associated flow, called for residents of Adankolo to heed the early warning and move to higher ground.
In his remarks, the Etsu Adankolo, Chief David Agbayi, express his appreciation to Society for Water and Sanitation, said it could not have come at a better time than now.
There goodwill messages from the Nigerian Red Cross, SEMA, Ministry of Health amongst others who pledge working collectively to ensure that the state preparedness for the 2026 predicted flood doesn’t come with consequences.
Society for Water and Sanitation is a coordinating network of over 300 Civil Society Organisations. A Non-Governmental Organisation and Community Based Organisations in water, sanitation, and hygiene spread over six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. It’ mandate is to ensure access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities for all Nigerians.