The Rivers State government has initiated a direct cash relief program for flood victims, with N200,000 being transferred to identified beneficiaries through their personal bank accounts. This move aims to eliminate middleman interference and ensure aid reaches intended recipients. The state's Deputy Governor, Prof Ngozi Odu, announced this during a visit to flood-affected residents of Rukpokwu in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area at Government House, Port Harcourt.
According to Prof Odu, the flood situation in parts of Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt City has become particularly devastating, forcing some residents to rely on canoes to access their homes. The Deputy Governor noted that Governor Siminalayi Fubara directed the State Flood Prevention and Management Committee to intensify its efforts by revisiting worst-hit communities to distribute relief materials and provide direct financial assistance.
The Rivers State government has commenced clearing waterways and blocked drainages to mitigate rising floodwaters. Prof Odu explained that the state has been sending trucks of food and non-food items to affected areas, with three trucks going to each Local Government Area, and more than three trucks to LGAs marked with red flags. This effort aims to provide immediate relief to those affected by the floods.
Beyond immediate financial relief, the Deputy Governor said the state government is working on long-term engineering measures to redirect floodwaters into designated canals. Heavy construction is expected to commence once floodwaters recede. Additionally, the government is integrating healthcare support through the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme, allowing affected residents requiring medical attention to access free healthcare services.
Prof Odu commended the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for deploying an assessment team to the state and appealed for increased support from NEMA and other relevant federal agencies. She reassured residents that the state government would sustain its interventions until the disaster was fully managed.
Beneficiaries of the cash relief program, including Mrs Precious Uzoka, Muritala Sanusi, and Chinedu Asonye, expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for the gesture, describing the direct financial intervention as unprecedented in the state. The Deputy Governor emphasized that the government's actions demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the people, especially the downtrodden.
The Rivers State government's efforts to address the flooding situation reflect a comprehensive approach, combining immediate relief with long-term solutions. As the state continues to experience flooding, the government's initiatives aim to alleviate the suffering of affected residents and provide support to those in need. The commitment to transparency and direct assistance is seen as a positive step in managing the crisis.
Key points
- - The Rivers State government has started direct transfers of N200,000 to identified flood victims. - The state government is working on long-term engineering measures to redirect floodwaters into designated canals. - The government is providing healthcare support through the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme.
