NEC approves N83.2bn flood mitigation fund ahead of rainy season
The National Economic Council (NEC) approved N83.2 billion for climate emergency preparedness during its 158th meeting on Thursday. Vice President Kashim Shettima chaired the session where state governors approved the Anticipatory Action Task Force (AATF) intervention to proactively address flooding risks.
The fund comes as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure reports Nigeria and African nations lose $12.7 billion annually to disaster-related infrastructure damage. This proactive approach marks a shift from reactive emergency management, with the council emphasizing that states must collaborate on logistics and compliance barriers preventing farm produce from reaching international markets.
VP Shettima stressed that economic transformation requires complete value chains—from farms to factories to ports. He noted Nigeria cannot continue exporting raw materials while importing finished goods. The council resolved to tackle export bottlenecks affecting agricultural goods movement and international standards compliance.
NIHSA had warned in July 2025 that over 100 major roads across 28 states and FCT face severe flood disruptions. Previous flood damage includes the May 2025 destruction of Mokwa Bridge (N16.7bn reconstruction) and N2 billion for flood-affected homes in Niger State.
With coastal cities facing rising sea levels and flooding threatening economic hubs, this intervention directly affects vulnerable communities, farmers, and commuters in flood-prone areas. Are you in a flood-risk zone, and does your community have adequate preparedness plans for the upcoming rainy season?