The Rivers State Government has extended its flood emergency sensitization campaign to Zone 3, covering 13 local government areas, to strengthen disaster preparedness across the state.
The event, held at the Khana Local Government Secretariat, brought together representatives from Andoni, Opobo/Nkoro, Khana, Gokana, Eleme, Tai, Oyigbo, Emohua, Bonny, Etche, Degema, Ogu/Bolo, and Obio/Akpor LGAs.
Speaking on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Alwell Okerenku, said the government was committed to proactive measures against flooding.
He stressed that public awareness and citizen participation were central to reducing disaster risks.
“Our task is not merely to respond after disasters, but to anticipate and mitigate their impact,” Okerenku said, adding that plans were underway to establish a Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (RSEMA).
He also highlighted ongoing investments in drainage infrastructure and partnerships with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), security agencies, and international partners.
NEMA’s Head of Operations in Rivers State, Eric Ebhodaghe, urged residents to adopt safe environmental practices, including proper waste disposal and avoidance of waterway construction.
Khana Local Government Chairman, Dr. Thomas Bariere, recommended the creation of standing flood management committees in vulnerable LGAs to improve coordination.
With heavy rains expected, the government and stakeholders stressed that flood prevention required collective action from households, communities, and institutions.
