The Director General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), Mr. Efa Nyong, has urged residents of the state to remain vigilant and adopt safety measures as the rainy season intensifies.
Mr. Nyong gave the charge while receiving the leadership of the Unified Commercial Drivers Association of Cross River State led by its Chairman, Mr. Nta Henshaw, alongside the Executive President of Delivery Vehicle Owners and Drivers Association of Nigeria (DELVAN), High Chief Comrade Raphael Sabbastine, at the CR-SEMA headquarters in Calabar.
The CR-SEMA boss said with increased rainfall being experienced in different parts of the country and changing weather patterns, there was need for residents to take proactive steps to reduce the impact of possible flooding.
He noted that disaster preparedness remained a collective responsibility, urging residents to keep drainage channels around their homes and communities clear, avoid dumping refuse in waterways and desist from building structures on flood paths.
Mr. Nyong further encouraged transport operators and other stakeholders to support safety awareness within their various communities, noting that early warning and quick information sharing are key to reducing disaster risks.
He stressed that CR-SEMA under his leadership will continue to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders, community groups and emergency responders to improve disaster preparedness and response across the state.
The DG also appreciated the leadership of the Unified Commercial Drivers Association and DELVAN for their visit, describing stakeholder support and cooperation as important in achieving effective emergency management.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Unified Commercial Drivers Association of Cross River State, Mr. Nta Henshaw, had expressed the union’s support for the DG, assuring him of their cooperation towards the success of his administration.
Also speaking, the Executive President of DELVAN, High Chief Comrade Raphael Sabbastine, commended the leadership qualities of Mr. Nyong and prayed for success in his new role.
As Cross River State enters a new month, CR-SEMA continues to encourage residents to remain alert, informed and prepared as part of efforts to build safer and more resilient communities.
By David Asu
