Following the prediction by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) identifying Ogun State as one of the States likely to be affected by flooding this year, the Ogun State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), NIMET, Sahel Consulting  firm and other partners, have organised a stakeholders' engagement on the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Campaign tagged "Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria," to mitigate flooding in the          State.

Speaking at the event at Obas Complex Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Baker, said the preparedness reflected a shared commitment to prioritising the protection of lives and property.

Baker explained that strengthening coordination among stakeholders would reduce risk and build resilience, especially at the grassroots level.

Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Rotimi Akinlesi, noted that while disasters occur suddenly, flooding is often seasonal, urging residents to prepare ahead for eventualities.

On his Part, Director, Ogun State Emergency Management Agency, Mr. Soji Durojaiye, appreciated partner stakeholders and affirmed that the present administration was committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property. He encouraged Community Development Associations (CDAs) to engage registered waste disposal agencies for proper refuse management to prevent dumping of waste in drainages

Also, Director General, National Emergency Management Agency represented by the Director, Southwest Zone, Mr. Saheed Akiode, identified flood as one of the devastating disasters in the country, saying disasters are better managed when communities are adequately informed, prepared and actively involved in prevention and response efforts.

In their separate interviews, a farmer from Abeokuta south LGA Mr. Lasisi Bello and a community leader in Ewekoro LGA Mr. Adeolu Shakiru, applauded the stakeholders for organising the campaign, promising to share the knowledge gained with their communities.