The Federal Government has taken a significant step to address the ongoing flood crisis by disbursing N3 billion to each state in the federation.
This initiative aimed at mitigating the immediate impacts of flooding and other natural disasters, was a key highlight during the 144th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, which was chaired by the Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
During the meeting, Vice President emphasized the importance of these funds in providing immediate relief to affected communities. He urged state governments to collaborate effectively with federal agencies and development partners to ensure that the grants are utilized efficiently. He highlighted that while long-term solutions to the country’s challenges are in progress, Nigerians require swift and impactful measures to alleviate their current hardships.
“The disbursement of these funds demonstrates our commitment to addressing the pressing needs of Nigerians affected by these disasters. However, the success of these efforts depends on the transparent and effective use of these resources at the state level,” VP stated.
The N3 billion grant is part of a broader federal strategy to tackle natural disasters more proactively. The NEC meeting also approved the establishment of the National Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification Management Council (NFEDDMC), which will be chaired by the Vice President. This council will coordinate inter-agency efforts to ensure a unified and real-time response to natural disasters across the country.
State governors expressed their appreciation for the federal government’s timely intervention, acknowledging that the funds would provide much-needed support in dealing with the immediate aftermath of recent floods. They also stressed the importance of investing in long-term infrastructure projects to prevent future disasters, a recommendation echoed in the comprehensive Roadmap on Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification presented at the meeting.
In addition to disaster relief, the NEC meeting addressed other critical issues, including nutrition, state police, and polio eradication. The council endorsed the N-774 Programme on Nutrition, which focuses on combating malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable populations, and urged states to prioritize nutrition interventions in their 2025 budgets. Furthermore, states were reminded to expedite their submissions on the establishment of state police forces, a crucial step towards enhancing security nationwide.
In conclusion, the Federal Government’s proactive measures, supported by substantial financial backing, represent a critical step towards alleviating the immediate suffering caused by natural disasters while laying the foundation for sustainable, long-term solutions. As Vice President Shettima reiterated, the success of these efforts hinges on effective collaboration between federal, state, and international partners, ensuring that these initiatives translate into meaningful improvements in the lives of Nigerians.
