The Federal government has inaugurated the National Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification Management Council (NFEDDMC), to combat the growing challenges of the environment.
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, said the council would address climate-induced disasters, focusing on collaborative efforts across government agencies and regions.
Speaking on Friday during the inauguration at the Presidential Villa, Shettima noted that there was a need for a unified response to natural disasters that have increasingly impacted Nigeria.
“This council will chart a new course in the management of nature-induced disasters, moving beyond siloed efforts and fostering a collaborative, resource-sharing model for optimal performance,” he stated.
The creation of the council followed recommendations developed by a committee led by Kogi State Governor, Usman Ahmed Ododo, under the direction of the National Economic Council (NEC).
The NFEDDMC’s responsibilities include “advising the federal government on disaster management strategies, developing a national disaster management strategy with immediate, medium, and long-term measures, and enhancing public awareness of climate resilience practices.”
According to Senator Shettima, each agency involved must be prepared to act promptly, as environmental disasters often require urgent responses.
The Vice President expressed confidence in the council’s ability to confront the challenges posed by climate. “The journey ahead is challenging, but I believe in the expertise and resolve of our team. Together, we can build a more resilient Nigeria,” he added.
The Vice President is the chairman of the council, with Governors of Kogi, Bayelsa, Oyo, Ebonyi, Bauchi and Jigawa States as members.
Other members are the Minister of State, Water Resources & Sanitation; Minister of State for Environment; Directors-General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, Nigeria Meteorological Agency, National Water Resources Institute, and the National Emergency Management Agency.
Others include Managing-Directors of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Niger Delta Development Commission, North East Development Commission and representatives of development partners.