Mitigating impact of flood in Nigeria

The National Emergency Management Agency has issued a warning against heavy rainfall and potential flooding in 19 states and 56 communities across Nigeria in August. This alert comes less than a year after some of these areas experienced devastating floods, raising concerns about the need for effective mitigation strategies. To delve into the ongoing efforts to address these challenges, Desmond Majekodunmi, the Founder of Lufasi Nature Park, sat down for an insightful discussion. Majekodunmi commended NEMA for their accurate warnings and data systems that have been instrumental in providing timely alerts. However, he highlighted the alarming shift in weather patterns, particularly noting the anomaly of heavy rainfall during what historically would be the dry 'August break'. He attributed these changes to global warming-induced climate change, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Discussing Nigeria's vulnerability to climate change impacts, Majekodunmi stressed the critical need for grassroots-level initiatives to mitigate risks and enhance food security. He underlined the importance of sensitizing local communities in their dialects to raise awareness about climate change effects and adaptive measures. Recognizing climate change as an existential crisis with far-reaching implications for security and economies, he underscored the imperative for unified action. Moreover, Majekodunmi called for solidarity among African nations to advocate for increased commitment from the developed world in addressing climate change. He acknowledged the pledges made at global forums like COP meetings but emphasized the necessity for tangible actions beyond rhetoric. Highlighting the importance of reforestation as a key mitigation strategy, he urged for concerted efforts to leverage natural resources like the tropical rainforest for carbon sequestration. At the sub-national level, Majekodunmi emphasized the significance of engaging rural communities and integrating sustainability education in schools. He stressed the need to inspire youth to champion environmental stewardship and emphasized the alignment of ecological conservation with religious teachings that emphasize the responsibility to replenish the earth. In conclusion, he called for a collective commitment to climate action, highlighting Africa's vast potential for renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. By fostering a unified voice and proactive measures at all levels, he expressed optimism in overcoming the climate challenges and securing a sustainable future for the continent.