Agency Sensitises Bauchi Flood-prone Communities

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has enlightened Bauchi State flood-prone communities about emergency preparedness and safety skills.

Speaking in Bauchi, the NOA state director, Nasiru Mahe, said the campaign was structured around five thematic areas – education and government programmes, flood disaster preparedness, security, national values reorientation and respect for Nigerian identity and national symbols.

On education, Mahe said the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) is a life-changing opportunity for students. He explained that the loan is interest-free, with tuition paid directly to institutions.

According to him, over 600,000 students are benefitting from it, while ₦59 billion has been disbursed. He urged prospective applicants to apply through nelfund.gov.ng, noting that requirements include a JAMB registration number, NIN and BVN.

The NOA director also stressed the importance of flood disaster preparedness, warning that forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) indicate that Bauchi is among the states likely to experience flooding this rainy season. He urged residents in flood-prone areas to clear drainages and vacate riverine settlements to avoid loss of lives and property.

On security, Mahe revealed that the federal government had deployed 15,000 new security personnel, alongside drones and armoured vehicles, to enhance surveillance and combat insecurity. He added that more than 5,000 neighbourhood watch groups have been formed, but emphassed that security is collective responsibility.

“If you see something, say something,” he urged.

Addressing the issue of national values reorientation, the NOA official expressed concern over rising unwholesome practices among youths, particularly during graduation ceremonies. He condemned the trend of indecent displays and cautioned young people against acts that could bring shame to their families and communities.

Mahe also underscored the importance of patriotism and respect for national symbols such as the flag and the anthem, noting that meaningful development can only be achieved when the citizens put their country first.

The enlightenment campaign, according to him, is ongoing simultaneously in all the 774 local government areas, the 36 states of the federation, the FCT, and NOA’s national headquarters.