The National Economic Council (NEC) don approve N83.2 billion for interventions under the Anticipatory Action Task Force (AATF) to reduce the impact of flooding and other climate-related emergencies across Nigeria.The approval came during the 158th NEC meeting held on Thursday and chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.The fund approval followed a presentation by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, who highlighted the need for proactive measures to address the annual flooding challenges that usually affect many parts of the country during the rainy season.
Council members agreed that the Anticipatory Action Task Force will help Nigeria move away from emergency responses after disasters occur and instead focus on preventing or reducing their impact before they happen.Speaking at the meeting, Vice President Shettima stressed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must begin to deliver visible benefits to Nigerians through its ongoing reforms.According to him, government policies should be measured by their impact on the lives of ordinary citizens, especially farmers, manufacturers, vulnerable groups, unemployed youths and future generations.
The Vice President also called on state governments to work closely with the Federal Government in addressing logistical and regulatory challenges that prevent Nigerian farm produce from gaining easier access to international markets.He noted that improving access to global markets for agricultural products would boost farmers’ incomes, strengthen food security and support economic growth across the country.
Shettima maintained that both federal and state governments must collaborate to ensure that reforms translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.The NEC’s approval of the N83.2 billion intervention fund is expected to strengthen disaster preparedness efforts nationwide while supporting government plans to build resilience against flooding and other climate-related threats.
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