Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has pledged to intensify efforts to mitigate flood risks and other potential disasters by enhancing the capacity of state agencies and communities for prompt response.
The announcement was made on Monday during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Vice Admiral Ibas highlighted a recent flood simulation exercise in Mbiama, Ahoada West Local Government Area, which aimed to raise awareness and improve local disaster preparedness. He recalled last year’s devastating floods, which displaced hundreds of thousands, destroyed farmlands, and isolated communities, stressing the need for proactive measures.
“It is our prayer that disasters don’t come our way. However, we must prepare because disasters do not give notice,” he said.
The administrator commended NEMA for its collaboration and detailed steps the state government has taken, including rehabilitating IDP camps, desilting canals in Port Harcourt, and strengthening waste management through the Rivers State Waste Management Authority (RIWAMA). He also confirmed ongoing work to establish the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency to further boost disaster response capabilities. “We are committed to deploying all available resources to keep our people safe,” he affirmed.
Dr. Bandele of NEMA described the Mbiama flood simulation as the best ever organized in the state, praising the effective deployment of local and state resources. He noted the strategic presence of two NEMA offices in Port Harcourt—one serving Rivers and Bayelsa, and another serving the wider zone—and pledged continued support for the Rivers State Central Working Committee on Flood Management and Control in 2025.
