The Rivers State Government has launched a free medical services initiative for flood victims across the state. This was announced by the State Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Rivers State Flood Prevention and Management Committee, Prof. Ngozi Odu, during a meeting with a delegation from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The free medical services will be provided through the integration of the Rivers State Health Insurance Scheme into the flood response efforts. Beneficiaries will be registered and referred to nearby health facilities, while cases requiring specialist attention will be referred to higher-level hospitals, with the cost covered under the health insurance intervention. This initiative is expected to run for at least one year.
The recent floods have affected communities across the state, with no regard for political affiliation, social status, or ethnicity. Governor Siminalayi Fubara directed the State Flood Prevention and Management Committee to step up interventions in affected areas upon learning of the worsening flood situation. The state government has deployed trucks loaded with food and non-food items to several local government areas.
In addition to relief materials, the state government is providing stipends to some flood victims. The deputy governor commended NEMA and its Rivers State team for their prompt response to the state's appeal. She stressed the importance of collaboration among the Federal, State, and Local Governments, as well as agencies such as NEMA and the Nigerian Red Cross.
NEMA's Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Abubakar Umar, represented by the Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Bature Usman, assured that the agency would reinforce the capacity of RSEMA and other agencies involved in the response operation. NEMA has commenced an assessment of some flood-affected communities and areas in collaboration with the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (RSEMA) and other stakeholders.
The flood has also ravaged the Igbo Etche Housing Estate, trapping thousands of residents, including retired civil servants. The estate's chairman, Mr. Oputuboye Braide, reported that all activities have been suspended, and residents are in danger due to the presence of reptiles and other animals. He urged the government to construct a drainage system in the area to prevent further flooding.
The Rivers State Government has also announced plans for major tourism and leisure events in December. Meanwhile, stakeholders in the state are seeking a digital mapping of tourism potentials in the state. The state's response to the flood emergency is focused on immediate relief, food, healthcare, and addressing the underlying causes of flooding.
Key points
- The Rivers State Government has launched free medical services for flood victims.
- The initiative is expected to run for at least one year.
- The state government is providing relief materials, stipends, and medical services to affected communities.
