NEC Backs Proactive Flood Plan to Protect Vulnerable States

The National Economic Council has approved a new anticipatory action framework designed to reduce the impact of riverine flooding, marking a policy shift toward early intervention rather than post-disaster relief.

The plan, unveiled at the council’s 152nd meeting at the Presidential Villa, was presented by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and described by members as “comprehensive and visionary.”

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, who briefed journalists after the session, said flooding has become one of Nigeria’s most pressing environmental threats, making proactive measures essential.

“The objectives of the anticipatory action framework include, but are not limited to, protecting vulnerable households, enabling timely and dignified interventions before flooding peaks, and focusing on equity, ensuring no community is left behind,” Zulum explained.

The framework will initially target 13 high-risk states, offering humanitarian cash support, evacuation centres, and enhanced early warning systems managed by the National Emergency Management Agency and the National Orientation Agency.

However, governors agreed that its scope must be broadened to cover additional states.

“Council has commended the Office of the National Security Adviser for the work done, describing the framework as comprehensive and visionary. However, the council resolved that the scope of the framework has to be widened to include more states and submit a final document for ratification at the next meeting of the NEC,” Zulum said.

The move follows years of devastating floods, including the 2022 disaster that killed more than 600 people, displaced 1.4 million, and ravaged farmland across the country.

Experts cite climate change, inadequate urban planning, and weak infrastructure as drivers of worsening annual floods.

Zulum added that states have been directed to intensify local risk communication using town halls, radio, and community channels, while also strengthening emergency agencies with training, equipment, and funding.

He clarified that the new anticipatory framework differs from an earlier NEC committee on flooding. “The two bodies have very different objectives,” he said.

“Today’s presentation by the NSA is about establishing an anticipatory framework to provide immediate humanitarian support, cash assistance, incentives and early warning systems, while the earlier committee looked at longer-term prevention measures.”