Reps to deploy legislative framework to tackle natural disasters in Nigeria
The House of Representatives is to deploy legislative frameworks that will help mitigate the devastating effects of natural disasters in the country.
House’ Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas who spoke in Abuja Monday noted that the duty of lawmakers extends beyond enacting laws to anticipating challenges and strengthening institutions but also to ensure that government responses meet the needs of the people
He spoke while inaugurating the Ad-hoc Committee on Flood Management and Response which he noted has been established in recognition of the rising frequency and severity of floods across the country
“We cannot afford to treat this matter with levity. The House expects this committee to identify both the immediate and long-term measures required to prevent loss of lives and property, while recommending a clear roadmap for national preparedness and resilience
“Flooding goes beyond being a mere environmental issue but is also an economic, social, and humanitarian challenge as every year, thousands of families are displaced, farmlands submerged and critical infrastructure washed away” he said
He called on the committee to ensure an inter-agency collaboration with relevant stallholders since flood management requires the concerted involvement of emergency agencies, ministries of environment, water resources, health, works, and housing, state and local governments as well as the Nigeria’s Space Agency that will help with provision of satellite imagery for properly mapping
Abbas urged the committee to pay special attention to the legislative gaps that may hinder effective flood response in the country
“Where our existing laws are weak, outdated, or insufficient, it is your duty to highlight them because it will enable the House to act promptly in strengthening our legal framework so that our people are adequately protected from recurring disasters” he said
Chairman of the Committee, Midala Balami lamented that each year, lives are lost, properties destroyed, livelihoods disrupted, and the socio-economic fabric of entire communities severely affected.
“Our mandate is clear: to investigate the root causes, assess the preparedness and response mechanisms of relevant agencies, engage stakeholders at all levels, and recommend sustainable and actionable measures to mitigate the impact of flooding across Nigeria
He emphasized the needs for a comprehensive national framework that encompasses prevention, early warning systems, emergency response, community resilience, infrastructure development and climate adaptation strategies that would tackle the menace.
