As the world marks the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) today, October 13, 2025, the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) has called for increased investment in disaster resilience and the establishment of a Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (REMA) to strengthen local disaster response capacity.
This year’s IDDRR theme, “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,” underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent and mitigate the impacts of natural and human-induced disasters.
Speaking on the day, Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, Executive Director of YEAC-Nigeria, the organization drew attention to the rising disaster risks across Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region and Rivers State, where communities face recurrent flooding, oil spills, erosion, and other climate-related hazards.
“The Niger Delta’s fragile ecosystem and communities are increasingly vulnerable to disasters, exacerbated by climate change, environmental degradation, and inadequate infrastructure.”
He emphasized that Rivers State, a key economic hub in the region, has become increasingly susceptible to flooding, poor sanitation, and health-related disasters worsened by the suspension of the monthly sanitation exercise, poor waste management, and insufficient emergency preparedness.
YEAC-Nigeria urged both the federal and Rivers State governments to prioritize disaster risk reduction and management by Investing in flood control and early warning infrastructure.
Strengthening emergency preparedness and response systems. Implementing effective climate adaptation and environmental protection policies. Supporting communities affected by disasters with adequate relief and recovery resources.
Also see: Reverend Uma Ukpai Passes On
The organization reiterated its longstanding call for the creation of the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (REMA) a body first proposed during the tenure of former Sole Administrator Ibok Ette Ibas (rtd) to improve disaster coordination and reduce the loss of lives and property.
“Establishing REMA will enhance Rivers State’s capacity to respond to emergencies, save lives, and protect livelihoods,” YEAC-Nigeria stressed.
As the world commemorates the day, YEAC-Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to promoting environmental sustainability and disaster risk reduction through advocacy, awareness, and community empowerment.
