The Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has commenced the distribution of relief materials to Local Government Areas (LGAs) affected by the 2024 floods in the state.
The distribution, which was flagged off at the SEMA warehouse in Awka, included relief items such as mattresses, buckets, blankets, clothing, plates, mosquito nets, soaps, and disinfectants. Among the LGAs present to receive immediate assistance were Ogbaru, Anambra East, and Anambra West, which have been heavily impacted by the floods.
SEMA’s Executive Secretary, Chief Paul Odenigbo, noted that out of ten affected LGAs, Ogbaru has been the hardest hit, followed by Anambra East, Anambra West, and Ayamelum. He explained that displaced persons are already being accommodated in holding centers, and the distributed relief materials would provide immediate support for those in need.
“These basic items will assist them in the camps,” Odenigbo said, assuring that the state government would continue to provide additional relief as the situation develops. He also emphasized the rising water levels and the ongoing efforts to evacuate people to safer areas.
Ogbaru LGA Chairman, Mr. Franklin Nwadialu, represented by his liaison officer, Mr. Kezito Onunokwu, commended the state government for the swift response, noting that the relief materials would alleviate the suffering of the displaced persons. He also called for more food supplies and medical attention for those affected.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) issued a fresh alert on October 17, urging communities along coastal lines to evacuate immediately. SEMA has reinforced this warning, encouraging residents to relocate to higher ground and bring essential items with them to the camps.
