NEMA in Niger has launched a sensitization campaign focusing on disaster risk reduction and improved waste disposal. The initiative, spearheaded by Hussaini Isah, responds to predictions of severe flooding for 2025. Collaboration with various organizations aims to educate communities about environmental impacts and health risks, particularly from poor waste management practices.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Niger has initiated a campaign aimed at raising awareness about disaster risk reduction and proper waste disposal. Hussaini Isah, head of NEMA’s Minna Operations Office, led the effort in Anguwan Daji, Minna, in collaboration with other agencies, including NYSC-NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard, NISEPA, and NSEMA. This initiative addresses concerns raised by the 2025 flood predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the Nigerian Hydrological Service Agency.
Isah highlighted the necessity of preparedness and effective response when floods occur, stressing that the sensitization will continue across Minna and into Kwara state. He pointed out that inadequate waste disposal practices, such as littering with plastic and other debris, exacerbate environmental issues and can lead to flooding. Isah urged the state government to implement recycling plants to manage solid waste more effectively.
Ahmed Abubakar, President of NEMA EMV, supported this initiative, focusing on the community’s urgent needs. He emphasized the health risks of indiscriminate refuse disposal, especially for children unaware of these dangers. Furthermore, Anguwan Daji community head Alhaji Nasir Tanko advocated for additional waste disposal facilities to prevent dumping in waterways.
Resident Zuwaira Hassan recounted the past availability of waste collection services, which have since ceased. She appealed for immediate governmental action, underlining that neglecting waste management poses significant risks to the community’s health and safety.
NEMA’s campaign emphasizes the critical importance of community education on disaster preparedness and environmental health. With rising flood risks according to predictive agencies, proactive measures, including effective waste management strategies, are vital. The local government is urged to facilitate recycling initiatives and waste disposal sites to mitigate health hazards and possible flooding caused by waste accumulation.
Original Source: nannews.ng
