NEMA has launched a campaign in Niger to educate local communities about disaster risk reduction and proper waste disposal in response to upcoming flood predictions. The initiative, led by Hussaini Isah, focuses on collaboration with various organizations and aims to address the challenges of waste management that contribute to flooding risks. Community leaders have called for better waste disposal solutions and government action to improve local waste management services.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Niger has initiated a campaign aimed at educating local communities about disaster risk reduction and proper waste management practices. Hussaini Isah, head of NEMA’s Minna Operations Office, led this initiative in the Anguwan Daji community, emphasizing collaboration with relevant organizations, including NYSC-NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard and NISEPA.
The campaign is motivated by the flood predictions for 2025 released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). Isah highlighted the urgency of preparation and response in the face of potential disasters, asserting the necessity of effective actions when floods occur. The initiative will continue throughout Minna and extend to Kwara state.
Isah noted that poor waste disposal is a significant global challenge, remarking that Nigeria is not immune to this issue. He pointed out that littering with items such as sachets and plastic bottles can obstruct drainage systems, leading to water accumulation and potential flooding. He urged the state government to establish recycling facilities to manage solid waste.
Ahmed Abubakar, President of NEMA EMV, reiterated that the initiative serves as a community development service aimed at mitigating health hazards associated with improper waste disposal. He urged communities to be aware of the dangers of indiscriminate refuse dumping, particularly concerning children’s health.
Community leaders, including Alhaji Nasir Tanko, called for the creation of designated waste disposal sites to reduce the dumping in drainage systems. Suggestions included using media channels to inform the public about new disposal locations and the repercussions of improper waste management. Resident Zuwaira Hassan expressed concerns over the absence of waste collection services previously available in their area, urging the government to act urgently to prevent health risks posed by continuous drainage dumping.
The NEMA-led campaign in Niger emphasizes the critical need for disaster risk reduction and responsible waste disposal. Through community education and collaboration, the initiative seeks to tackle the significant challenges posed by improper waste management, especially as floods loom in 2025. Effective waste disposal practices and government support in establishing suitable facilities are essential for safeguarding community health and mitigating environmental risks.
Original Source: nannews.ng
