The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the federal government to set up a presidential flood relief and rehabilitation committee to support victims of recent flooding in the country.
The National President of CAN, Dr. Daniel Okoh made the call in a statement on on Tuesday.
He said CAN is deeply concerned about the disaster caused by flooding in communities across the country.
Okoh lamented that the CAN of as disturbed about the condition of many people that had been displaced while
businesses, farmlands and worship centres had been destroyed by flooding.
Okoh advised that the committee should consist of Nigerians who will mobilise financial assistance from the public and private sectors to support victims of the flooding.
The CAN president also said setting up the presidential committee is necessary, “because diligent intervention by all stakeholders will reduce the burden imposed by the natural disaster”.
He also said there should be more efforts focused on working towards providing permanent solutions to flooding, since it has become a yearly issue.
Okoh said, “We must further improve on our warning system, promote flood resilient buildings, construct buildings above flood levels and increase spending on the construction of flood defences.
“Our people should be encouraged to embrace planting of trees strategically, while the authorities should stop at nothing to restore rivers to their natural courses and introducing water storage areas.
“Apart from clearing the drainage, the government should also embark on public enlightenment about the responsibilities of citizens, which could help to reduce the impact of flooding.”
