Anambra Farmers Harvest Early to Beat Flood Threat

Farmers in Anambra State have commenced harvesting their crops early to avoid a potential flood that is set to occur as the water levels of the River Niger begin to increase due to upstream activities from other neighbouring countries.

According to reports, numerous farmlands in the riverine communities and flood prone areas of the state have been submerged due to continuous rainfall.

Paul Odenigbo, Executive Secretary, Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, who revealed this on Tuesday while providing an update on the flood situation in the state, opined the water level has been increasing and is expected to rise again due to activities in neighbouring countries. 

Odenigbo advised those residing in the riverine areas of the state to be ready to desert and relocate to higher grounds whenever they notice a rise in the water level.

He emphasised that the dredging of the rivers by the federal government or the building of dams is the only long-term solution to prevent the annual flood disaster.

He said, "The Anambra State Government has made plans through the flood response committee, led by the deputy governor, to ensure that those who are displaced receive proper care during their stay in camps.

The agency has begun cleaning and disinfecting the holding camps throughout the state to make them habitable for those who may be displaced by the flood, which is expected to worsen in the coming weeks.

He lauded the Federal Government's support through the National Emergency Management Agency, stating that more still needs to be done, such as inspection and evaluation of the extent of damage, to ensure that the impact of the incident is properly valued by the end of the flood incidents.

The government has reportedly designated IDP camps in Ayamelum, Anambra East, Ogbaru, Onitsha South, Onitsha North, Awka North, Ihiala, and Ekwusigo local government areas.