The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has intensified its grassroots sensitization and advocacy efforts in Kano State with a community engagement program in Gwale Local Government Area, following the successful stakeholders’ engagement and flag-off of the 2026 National Preparedness and Response Campaign (NPRC) on Flood Disaster and Related Hazards.
The advocacy and sensitization exercise forms part of NEMA’s commitment to translating early warning information into early action.
The program brought together district heads, ward heads, youth and women groups, community volunteers, and residents from flood-prone communities across the local government area.
The engagement focused on promoting flood preparedness, environmental sanitation, proper waste disposal, drainage maintenance, and other community-based measures aimed at reducing flood risks during the 2026 rainy season.
Speaking at the event, NEMA officials stressed the importance of active community participation in disaster risk reduction, noting that effective flood management requires collective responsibility and sustained grassroots action.
The Chairman of Gwale Local Government Area, Hon. Mu’azu Mojo, commended NEMA for taking the campaign directly to the people.
He highlighted ongoing flood mitigation efforts by the local government, particularly in Mandawari and Dandago wards, where residents and community leaders have embarked on gutter and drainage clearance exercises to reduce the impact of flooding.
As part of the sensitization programme, officials of the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) educated participants on drowning prevention and water safety measures.
Residents were informed about the dangers associated with floodwaters, especially the risks of drowning among children and other vulnerable groups, while practical safety tips were provided to help prevent avoidable tragedies during flood incidents.
Representatives of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) also guided participants on weather forecasts and climate predictions for the 2026 rainy season.
Farmers were advised on expected rainfall patterns and the most suitable periods for farming activities based on seasonal climate forecasts, with the aim of minimizing losses and improving agricultural productivity.
Participants were encouraged to regularly monitor and heed official weather forecasts, flood alerts, and early warning messages issued by relevant authorities throughout the rainy season.
Community leaders, youth groups, and residents pledged their support for the campaign and expressed readiness to share the knowledge gained with other members of their communities.
NEMA reiterated its commitment to continuing the advocacy campaign across identified flood-prone communities in Kano State to ensure that vulnerable populations are adequately informed, prepared, and equipped to respond effectively to flood-related risks and other hazards.
