NEC approves flood relief funding amid rising threats to over 1,200 communities

With over 1,200 communities facing the threat of flooding this year, the National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the release of funds to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to boost flood preparedness and disaster response across Nigeria.

Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, announced the decision to reporters on Thursday following the NEC meeting chaired by Vice-President Kashim Shettima in Abuja.

Edun said the funds will be allocated not only to NEMA but also to relevant federal ministries and state emergency agencies in a proactive move to mitigate the impact of heavy rains expected in the months ahead.

“Flooding is a shared challenge and requires a whole-of-society approach,” he said.

“All tiers of government must be fully involved, from enforcement of planning laws to equipping emergency response teams.”

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had earlier warned that 1,249 communities in 30 states and the FCT are at high risk of flooding due to anticipated heavier-than-usual rainfall.

Last year, widespread floods displaced thousands, destroyed farmlands, and strained already vulnerable infrastructure.

Edun said this year’s allocation builds on last year’s efforts to support frontline responders and ensure state governments are better equipped to handle flooding.

He noted that the intervention will also prioritise early warning systems, local emergency preparedness, and inter-agency collaboration.

To strengthen local response and grassroots readiness, NEC has directed the activation of Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) in all LGAs.