By Ovat Abeng
The Anambra State Branch of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, in collaboration with key partners, has conducted a large-scale flood simulation exercise in Inoma, Ukwalla, and Owelle communities of Anambra West Local Government Area.
The drill, held on Tuesday, was part of the Italian Government–funded Flood Resilience Project and formed one of 12 simulations conducted across the country. It aimed to enhance community preparedness, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and assess the operational readiness of emergency response teams in flood-prone areas.
The exercise recreated a realistic flood emergency scenario, featuring early warning broadcasts, community engagement, distribution of relief items, rapid evacuation drills, boat-led search and rescue, triage and first aid response, as well as the setup of temporary internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
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Speaking at the event, Anambra State Branch Secretary of the Red Cross, Engr. Kingsley Okoye, said the exercise underscored the importance of proper planning and community training.
“This simulation is both a success and a learning opportunity. It demonstrates the critical role of first responders in reducing disaster impact. With teamwork and collaboration, lives can be saved and losses reduced.”
Also addressing the community, Idarabo Ekanem, Senior Disaster Management Officer and Project Manager, Flood Recovery and Resilience Project (IFRC), explained the broader aim of the exercise.
“The project is ongoing in 12 states, including Anambra. Our goal is to improve resilience by sensitising communities on what to do before, during, and after floods. We are also renovating public facilities, strengthening water plants, and providing financial and technical support to reduce vulnerability.”
Some residents who survived the devastating 2012, 2022, and 2024 floods that claimed lives, destroyed homes, and ravaged farmlands also use the event to shared their ordeals.
Maurine Omataala, a farmer from Inoma, said the annual flooding had crippled livelihoods and forced families to seek refuge on rooftops. She commended the Red Cross for its intervention.
“I am a farmer, but since 2012 flooding has been ravaging our communities. Whenever it comes, it submerges our houses, destroys our crops, and sweeps away property. Many times, we escape by climbing rooftops or fleeing with boats. Today’s simulation has taught us safety measures and how to be first responders before help arrives.”
Another resident, a youth leader Francis Odotule, described the drill as an impactful lesson.
“Flood has damaged our farmlands, livestock, and livelihoods. What Red Cross has done today is a big relief. We appeal to government and agencies to sustain this support because our survival depends on it.”
The Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) led the exercise as Incident Commander, while the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) supported security operations and underwater search missions.
The simulation showcased a high level of coordination as Red Cross volunteers, SEMA officials, and NIWA personnel conducted search and rescue drills, administered first aid, and transported “casualties” to ambulances. Operational vehicles and medical teams were also deployed to ensure efficiency.
