By Douglas Princemola
The Imo State Government, through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has inaugurated Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) across the 27 Local Government Areas of the state. This step is part of the government’s plan to improve local response to disasters, especially during the rainy season when the risk of flooding is high.
Following the inauguration, a two-day training workshop on flood response and disaster management was held on Thursday, September 18, and Friday, September 19, 2025, at Rock View Hotel in Owerri. The event brought together LEMC members, local government officials, first responders, and other key participants from across the state.
Representing Governor Hope Uzodimma at the event, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Cosmas Iwu, said the government is taking active steps to reduce flooding in both urban and rural communities. He explained that a major part of the effort includes enforcing regulations and improving community awareness about environmental risks.
Chief Iwu also spoke strongly against the construction of illegal buildings on waterways and flood-prone areas. He warned that such structures would be removed, no matter who owns them, as they block natural drainage and increase the risk of flood disasters. He stressed that the government is focused on protecting lives and properties.
The Local Emergency Management Committees are expected to play a key role in helping their communities respond quickly during emergencies. Their responsibilities include sending early warnings, helping with evacuations, providing first aid, and coordinating with relevant agencies like SEMA.
During the workshop, participants were trained in practical areas such as how to manage flood alerts, conduct safe evacuations, give basic first aid, and respond to fire outbreaks. A live demonstration on how to put out a fire was also included. First aid kits were presented to all LEMC members to support their work at the local level.
Officials from SEMA said the training was organized to ensure that communities are better prepared for the challenges of the rainy season. They added that building capacity at the local level is one of the best ways to reduce the damage caused by floods and other natural disasters.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Onuimo Local Government Area, Dr. Emeka Paul Obi, said the initiative is timely and will help prevent erosion and flooding in rural communities. He praised the governor for launching the program and giving local leaders the tools and knowledge they need to act quickly in times of emergency.
The workshop ended with the distribution of training materials, group photographs, and a message of cooperation between all involved parties. Through this initiative, the Imo State Government is showing a clear commitment to community safety and disaster readiness.
