NEWS
ABSG, NEMA Begin Relief Distribution to Disaster Victims Across Four LGAs
ABSG, NEMA Begin Relief Distribution to Disaster Victims Across Four LGAs
The Abia State Government, in partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has commenced the distribution of relief materials to residents and communities affected by windstorms, fire outbreaks, and erosion across four Local Government Areas of the state.
The intervention programme, which covers Aba South, Umuahia North, Umuahia South, and Obingwa Local Government Areas, is aimed at providing immediate support and cushioning the impact of recent disasters on affected families.
The relief materials distributed include 25kg bags of rice, beans, spaghetti, seasoning cubes, tomato paste, vegetable oil, iodized salt, and other essential food items to assist victims as they recover from their losses.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Sunny Jackson, disclosed that the state government acted swiftly after receiving reports of the disasters by notifying NEMA for necessary intervention.
He explained that officials from both NEMA and SEMA conducted a joint rapid assessment of the affected communities to evaluate the level of destruction and identify the immediate needs of the victims before the relief support was approved.
Dr. Jackson commended NEMA for its timely response, noting that the intervention would go a long way in easing the difficulties faced by residents affected by the disasters. He stated that the relief materials were not intended to replace properties lost but to provide urgent assistance and reduce the hardship experienced by victims.
He further acknowledged the commitment of the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, towards effective disaster management, describing the administration as one that prioritizes the welfare and wellbeing of residents affected by emergencies.
The SEMA Executive Secretary also appealed to representatives of the benefiting communities to ensure that the relief items are distributed fairly, transparently, and strictly to those affected by the incidents.
While handing over the relief materials to the state government, the Head of Operations of NEMA for Imo and Abia States, Mr. Igwe Nnamdi, said the intervention was designed to support victims, reduce the effects of the disasters, and assist affected communities in their recovery process.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Chinatu Elee from Aba South Local Government Area expressed appreciation to the Abia State Government and NEMA for their swift response and assured that the materials would be delivered to genuine victims across the affected communities.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts by the Abia State Government and emergency management agencies to strengthen disaster response mechanisms and provide timely assistance to vul
nerable residents.


