NEMA Tests Flood Response Readiness In Cross River

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has carried out a full-scale flood simulation exercise in Calabar, Cross River State, as part of efforts to improve emergency response and prepare communities for possible flooding during the peak of the rainy season.
The exercise, held on Thursday under the 2026 National Disaster Preparedness and Response Campaign (NDPRC), brought together emergency responders, security agencies, humanitarian organisations, health workers and community leaders to assess their readiness and strengthen coordination in the event of a major flood.
Speaking at the event, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, said the state government remains committed to working closely with NEMA and other relevant agencies to reduce disaster risks and protect lives and property. He pledged the state’s continued support for initiatives aimed at improving disaster preparedness and emergency response.
Representing NEMA Director-General, Zubaida Umar, the Director of Internal Audit, Aliyu Waziri, said preparedness remains the most effective way to reduce the impact of disasters. He explained that the simulation was organised to test existing emergency response plans, improve coordination among agencies and strengthen the capacity of responders to handle flood emergencies efficiently.
The exercise featured mock search and rescue operations, evacuation of affected residents, emergency medical response and humanitarian coordination, giving participating agencies the opportunity to respond to a simulated flood scenario.
At the end of the exercise, the Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore B. A. Usman, commended the participating agencies for their professionalism and commitment. He said regular simulation exercises are important in identifying gaps in emergency response and improving the nation’s ability to respond effectively to disasters.
Participants included the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CRSEMA), Local Emergency Management Committees, the military, police, fire service, health responders, humanitarian organisations, volunteers and community leaders.