NMA Urges President Tinubu to Address Flooding Crisis and Aid Relocation Efforts
In the face of the ongoing flooding crisis in Nigeria, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action and implement emergency measures to combat the devastating consequences of the floods. At a press conference in Owerri following the NMA’s National Executive Council meeting, NMA President Uche Rowland Ojinmah emphasized the need for urgent intervention.
The NMA has called on the government at all levels to assist residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer places. Ojinmah stressed the importance of activating emergency preparedness against flooding, as heavy rains and visible signs of imminent flooding pose a significant threat to vulnerable communities. He specifically urged state governments in flood-prone regions to be proactive in disilting drainages and removing barricades from flood drains.
The association recognizes the efforts of the federal government in increasing the consolidated salaries medical structure. However, Ojinmah pointed out that the agreement was finalized prior to the fuel subsidy removal and escalation, necessitating a new demand for the upward review of allowances. The NMA called on the government to seamlessly implement the new minimum wage and consequential adjustment while also addressing the soaring inflation of food prices by rolling out palliative measures for Nigerians. It is crucial that these palliatives reach the common man and are not left in warehouses.
Additionally, the NMA raised concerns about the nation’s widespread insecurity, highlighting its detrimental impact on economic recovery and medical brain drain. The association urged the government to intensify efforts in addressing insecurity and restoring peace for the well-being of the country.
In a specific directive to the NMA branch in Cross River state, the association emphasized the need to sustain demands for the safe release of abducted colleague Ekanem Philip-Ephraim, who has been in captivity for over a month. Ojinmah pleaded with the abductors to show mercy and urged the Cross River government to redouble its efforts to secure the safe return of their colleague.
The NMA’s call for action comes as Nigeria faces the impending threat of devastating floods, necessitating immediate measures to protect vulnerable communities and ensure their well-being. The association’s appeal to President Tinubu and the government at large underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for proactive and effective responses to minimize the impact of the flooding crisis.
