NEC Approves Fresh Funding to Boost Flood Preparedness Nationwide, Emergency agencies, state governments to receive support ahead of heavy rains

The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the release of new funding to strengthen Nigeria’s flood preparedness and disaster management efforts ahead of the 2025 rainy season.

Speaking after the NEC meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, said the intervention aims to ensure the country is better prepared for predicted heavy rainfall and to avoid a repeat of past flood disasters.

According to Edun, the Council resolved to channel resources to critical federal agencies and state governments at the forefront of emergency response. Beneficiaries will include the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and key ministries such as Water Resources, Budget and Economic Planning, and Environment.

“Last year, funding was allocated to support NEMA and related ministries. This year, we’ve been tasked once again to roll out a coordinated intervention programme that offers tangible support for both flood prevention and relief,” Edun stated.

The initiative will also extend support to State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. In addition, NEC has mandated the establishment and activation of local emergency management committees across all local government areas. These committees will work in tandem with emergency coordination forums, which are to be convened regularly.

Edun emphasized that this multi-level coordination effort is designed to enhance synergy among federal, state, and local responders, ensuring a faster and more effective disaster response.

Commenting on broader national reforms, the minister noted that the government’s reform policies are beginning to yield results. “Now the focus is on ensuring those benefits reach the grassroots,” he said.