By Asuquo Edem
In response to fresh warnings from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has called for urgent proactive measures to avert possible flood disasters in the state this rainy season.
At Tuesday’s plenary, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, member representing Okobo State Constituency, moved a motion on the "Urgent Need to Take Proactive Measures to Prevent Flood in Akwa Ibom State." He warned that recent flood alerts by NEMA identify Akwa Ibom as one of the states at high risk of devastating floods due to persistent climate change effects and poor drainage systems.
“Flooding has become a recurring problem in Nigeria. Many of our roads are waterlogged, and several waterways and drainage channels are completely blocked,” Hon. Bassey said. He noted that although the state government has shown commitment to environmental issues—reflected in a budgetary allocation of over N3 billion—more community-level action is needed.
The lawmaker urged the House to mandate the Akwa Ibom State Emergency Management Agency (AKSEMA) to conduct a comprehensive vulnerability analysis to identify high-risk areas and develop actionable flood mitigation strategies.
He also called for immediate intervention by the State Waste Management Agency to clear blocked drains and ensure proper disposal of solid waste. In addition, he stressed the need for public enlightenment campaigns to educate citizens on flood risks and safety measures.
The motion was seconded by Hon. Mfon Idung, representing Etim Ekpo/Ika Constituency.
In his ruling, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elder Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk, Mrs. Nsikak Orok, to forward the resolutions of the House to the State Governor for immediate implementation.
The House thereafter adjourned for recess and is expected to reconvene on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
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