Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Highlights Risks from Floods and Diseases at NEMA Event
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized the ongoing risks posed by devastating floods and disease outbreaks, such as cholera, during a speech in Abuja on Thursday. His remarks were made at the unveiling of the revised 2024 nationwide risk assessment for Nigeria, organized by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Kalu addressed the urgent need for national action, stating, "It is with a deep sense of national duty that I address this nationally important gathering at the launch of the updated 2024 Countrywide Risk Analysis for Nigeria." He noted that the findings of the analysis highlight significant threats to the safety and well-being of citizens, particularly from flooding and epidemics. He cited that in 2022 alone, flooding displaced over 1.4 million Nigerians and resulted in considerable economic losses. The Deputy Speaker also pointed to the impact of conflict and violence, which have exacerbated vulnerabilities and led to widespread displacement in communities across the nation. He remarked on how epidemics continue to reveal gaps in health infrastructure and resilience mechanisms, underscoring the need for robust policymaking. Kalu reaffirmed the legislative arm's commitment to addressing these issues, stating, "The legislative arm of government has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that Nigeria’s risk management strategies are backed by appropriate laws and budgets." He pledged to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to prioritize disaster risk reduction and equitable resource distribution to vulnerable communities. Further, he stressed that disaster risk management requires a collective effort, declaring, "Disaster risk management is not the sole responsibility of the government; it requires a whole-of-society approach." He commended the support from international agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. In conclusion, Kalu urged that the launch of the risk analysis should serve as a catalyst for actionable steps toward creating a safer and more resilient Nigeria. He called for collaboration to mitigate risks, enhance preparedness, and strengthen the nation's collective future
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