The Head of Operations of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), South-South Zonal Office, Port Harcourt, Mr. Eric Ebhodeghe, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the newly constituted Bayelsa State Emergency Management Agency (BYSEMA) in Yenagoa.
The visit, which took place at BYSEMA’s office in Secretariat Annex 3, was aimed at strengthening collaboration between both agencies in preparation for the looming flood disaster, with Bayelsa State listed as one of the high-risk areas.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Ebhodeghe emphasized the need for joint efforts in public awareness and sensitization, preparedness, mitigation, response strategies, and provision of emergency relief materials.
Receiving the NEMA delegation, the Chairman of BYSEMA, Hon. Walamam Samuel Igrubia, expressed gratitude for the timely visit. He assured that the state agency is ready to partner with NEMA to ensure proactive measures are put in place before the flood season intensifies.
He further stressed the importance of fulfilling the agency’s core mandate of protecting lives and property through effective disaster management.
Members of the NEMA delegation included:
1. Mr. Felix Akrakom – Assistant Chief Search and Rescue Officer
2. Mr. Richard Idamkue – Human Resources Manager
3. Ms. Philomina Chidi – Assistant Chief Planning Officer
Directors of BYSEMA present at the meeting were:
1. Chief Ayii Aziowei – Secretary
2. Hon. Ilaye L. Ayawari – Director
3. Chief Amirifamoyo B. Fredrick – Director
4. Hon. Ernest E. Akuna – Director
The courtesy call marks the beginning of closer cooperation between NEMA and BYSEMA in tackling the recurring flood challenges in Bayelsa State.
