Asuquo Cletus
The Federal Government has urged residents of Cross River State to take proactive measures in mitigating the recurring cases of flooding across communities, warning that prevention remains the best strategy against the devastating menace.
This forms part of the NOA’s five national thematic campaigns, which also cover values reorientation, civic identity, security consciousness, and public awareness on government policies and programmes.
Speaking at a press conference organised by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Calabar, on Thursday , the State Director, John Asanye, said the campaign was part of the agency’s national thematic enlightenment programmes aimed at safeguarding lives, farmlands, and property.
He explained that flooding in Nigeria is largely caused by climate change, indiscriminate dumping of refuse in waterways, poor urban planning, and weak enforcement of environmental regulations. The consequences, he noted, include displacement of families, destruction of food crops, food insecurity, and outbreaks of water-borne diseases.
“As a people, we cannot continue to wait for disaster reliefs. The real solution is prevention,” Asanye stated. “Residents must embrace proper waste disposal, desist from building on water channels, and actively participate in community efforts to clear and maintain drainage systems.”
The NOA boss stressed that flood prevention must be a collective effort involving citizens, local authorities, environmental agencies, and urban planners. He said the agency will intensify grassroots sensitization in Cross River communities to drive home the message of environmental responsibility.
Asanye further charged the media to amplify the campaign, noting that enlightenment and sustained public education were critical in curbing flood-related disasters.
“The fight against flooding begins with individual responsibility. If every citizen plays their part, the burden on government will be greatly reduced and lives will be saved,” he added.