The distribution of intervention items to the beneficiaries of 2022 flood victims in Abia State has been flagged off.
Speaking during the flag-off Ceremony at Michael Okpara Auditorium, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Kenneth Kalu, commended the efforts of the Federal Government through NEMA to assist flood victims and the most vulnerable in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof Monica Ironkwe pointed out that the support and livelihood items are meant to help the beneficiaries to improve their socio-economic conditions, especially, the artisans to help them improve their business and grow the economy.
The Chief Scribe of the state pointed out that, His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti who is interested in the welfare of Abians, has plans on top gear to provide financial support to those affected by the flood as well as provide sustainable solutions to erosion problem with a view to enhancing environmental management in an affected areas in the state
The SSG who advised the beneficiaries to avoid selling the items, so as not to destroy the good intentions of the federal government, enjoined them to be orderly during the distribution exercise
Earlier in his speech, the Director General, National Emergency Management Agency, Mustapha Habib Ahmed, represented by the Supervisor, National Emergency Agricultural and Livelihood Intervention Programme, Mr Andero Johnson said that the intervention is expected to drive sustainable socio-economic resilience of the targeted most vulnerable individuals as well as stimulate value chain activities of the grassroots.
Mustapha used the opportunity to thank the federal government for their assistance and support and Abia State Government for providing them with an enabling environment for their mission to be accomplished.
Also contributing, the Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency, Abia State, Dr Sunny Jackson, appreciated NEMA for taking keen interest in addressing flood disasters in the state
Dr Jackson while explaining that the intervention was as a result of the 2022 flood disaster which destroyed farmlands and buildings in the state, disclosed that about seven thousand three hundred and seventy-four beneficiaries from fifteen Local Government Areas are to benefit from the relief materials.
Baring their minds, the beneficiaries, Mrs Comfort Nwokoafor, Miss Mmesomachi Emenike, among others, while expressing joy over the relief items received, thank both federal and state Governments, even as they promised to use the items judiciously.
