Survivors of the devastating floods of 2012, 2022, and 2024 in Anambra on Friday relived their harrowing experiences during a community flood preparedness simulation organised by the Nigerian Red Cross Society.
The event, held in Inoma Community, Anambra West Local Government Area, brought together residents who are still grappling with the recurring impacts of annual flooding that has claimed lives, destroyed homes, and ravaged farmlands.
The drill, one of 12 simulations under the Italian Government-funded Flood Resilience Project, was designed to improve community preparedness and emergency response in flood-prone areas.
A youth leader and survivor, Mr Francis Odotule, said flooding had destroyed his entire livelihood.
“Flood has damaged our farmlands, livestock and livelihoods. What Red Cross is doing today is a big relief. We appeal to government and agencies to sustain this support because our survival depends on it,” Odotule said.
Similarly, Mrs Ndidiamaka Iroegbu, a mother of four, recalled losing her home, farm, and livestock.
“We relocated to makeshift camps set up for the displaced. Sometimes there will be food shortage. We also face poor sanitation and the risk of disease outbreaks. But we appreciate Red Cross for this intervention. The training will help us better prepare for future emergencies,” she said.
A farmer, Mrs Maureen Omataala, said floods had repeatedly turned life upside down in her community.
“I am a farmer, but since 2012, floods have been ravaging our communities. Whenever flood comes, it submerges our houses, destroys crops and sweeps away property worth millions. Many times, we escape by climbing rooftops or fleeing with boats. Today’s simulation has taught us safety measures and how to be first responders before help arrives,” she said.
Speaking during the exercise, Mr Kingsley Okoye, Anambra Branch Secretary of the Red Cross, stressed the importance of proper planning and community-based training.
“This simulation is both a success and a learning opportunity. It demonstrates the critical role of first responders in reducing disaster impact. With teamwork and collaboration, lives can be saved and losses reduced,” he said.
Also addressing the community, Mrs Idarabo Ekanem, Senior Disaster Management Officer and Project Manager of the Flood Recovery and Resilience Project, highlighted the broader scope of the initiative.
“The project is ongoing in 12 states, including Anambra. Our goal is to improve resilience by sensitising communities on what to do before, during and after floods. We are also renovating public facilities, strengthening water plants and providing financial and technical support to reduce vulnerability,” she said.
The simulation recreated a realistic flood emergency scenario, including early warning broadcasts, community mobilisation, relief item distribution, rapid evacuation, boat-led search operations, underwater rescue, first aid response, and ambulance transportation of casualties.
(NAN)