NEMA and Kogi SEMA Distribute Relief Items to Rain/Windstorm Victims in Lokoja, Kogi State

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Abuja Operations Office (AOO) in collaboration with the Kogi SEMA carried out a direct distribution of Approved Federal Government Relief materials to persons affected by Rain/ Windstorm disaster in 8 communities in Lokoja LGA, Kogi State.

The distribution, which took place across eight communities—Owara, Ogabon, Agbaja, Aseni, Kupa, Chikara, Kpata, and Otube—was part of the Federal Government’s commitment to alleviate the suffering of disaster victims.

The relief materials, which included food items such as rice, garri, and maize, as well as essential supplies like plastic buckets and clothing for men and children, were provided to help cushion the impact of the disaster.

Representing the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, the Head of Abuja Operations Office, Comrade Justin Uwazuruonye, commiserated with the victims and emphasized the importance of communal support in difficult times. “We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident that has caused significant distress in these communities. We encourage you all to be your brother’s keeper, especially as we continue to experience more rainfall this season,” he stated.

Comrade Uwazuruonye also conveyed a safety message from the NEMA Director General, urging the affected residents to take proactive steps to ensure their safety by relocating to higher grounds. “The rains are still ongoing, and we are concerned about your safety. We advise you to move to safer areas to avoid further risks. Disaster management is everyone’s responsibility, and we must all take preventive measures to reduce the impact of such events in the future,” he added.

The event drew notable government officials, including Hon. Danjuma Sule Aguye, the member representing Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Speaking at the distribution, Hon. Aguye expressed his gratitude to NEMA and the Federal Government for their swift intervention. “This is a much-needed intervention that will go a long way in easing the burden on our people. We have suffered greatly from this disaster, but the relief materials provided today will undoubtedly make a difference in the lives of those affected,” he remarked.

Hon. Aguye further called on residents to heed the advice of NEMA officials and take necessary precautions to prevent further disasters. “We must take this as a wake-up call and ensure that we are better prepared in the future. It is essential that we work together as a community to support one another and reduce the risks associated with natural disasters,” he said.

The Head of AOO, Comrade Uwazuruonye, reminded the residents that disaster preparedness is critical and urged them to participate in activities aimed at disaster risk reduction. “We all have a role to play in disaster management. It’s important that we engage in practices that minimize the risks we face, such as proper land use planning, maintaining clear drainage systems, and adhering to early warnings,” he emphasized.

The event marks a continued effort by NEMA and Kogi SEMA to provide essential assistance to disaster-affected communities, as both agencies work towards enhancing disaster response and preparedness across Nigeria.