Flood simulation exercise held in Agboyi/Ketu to test early warning Systems

Michael Olumide

Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) recently conducted a flood simulation exercise in Agboyi/Ketu, Lagos State, as part of the Italian Government-funded Flood Resilience Project.

The project aimed to enhance flood preparedness and response in six high-risk states in Nigeria, namely Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, Enugu, Lagos, and Nasarawa.

The exercise brought together key emergency partners, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Fire Service, OCHA, Nigerian Navy, and NSCDC, among others.

The simulation exercise tested community-level early warning and evacuation systems, strengthened coordination between NRCS, state actors, and community structures, and enhanced the capacity of volunteers and disaster risk reduction clubs.

According to the Chairman of the NRCS Lagos branch, Dr. Mrs. Adebola Kolawole, the project is designed to identify gaps and lessons learned for improved flood preparedness and response.

The Italian Government-funded project will initially cover 12 states, with the six high-risk states being the first to benefit.

Assistant Director of NEMA’s Search and Rescue department, Mrs. Temitayo Adenike, emphasized the importance of a timely response to disasters, citing a recent flood occurrence in Ikorodu that was controlled due to swift response and cooperation among stakeholders.

The NRCS has also trained first aiders within the community to take immediate action in case of flood signs, such as heavy downpour.

The exercise highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration among stakeholders in achieving the project’s goals.

This project is part of a broader effort to enhance climate resilience and adapt to the impacts of climate change in Nigeria.