Nigeria TV Info 

Flood Crisis: NEC Slashes Prevention Fund by 50%, Approves N83bn

The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved N83 billion for flood-related interventions while reportedly reducing the national flood prevention fund by 50%, sparking fresh concerns over Nigeria’s preparedness for the 2026 flooding season.

The decision was taken at a high-level NEC meeting attended by state governors and federal officials, where rising flood threats across several states dominated discussions. Officials noted that the reduced prevention allocation will be redirected toward emergency response and immediate relief operations.

According to sources, the N83bn approval will support flood disaster management, including the provision of relief materials, rehabilitation of displaced communities, and strengthening of emergency coordination mechanisms under agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

However, critics argue that cutting prevention funding could worsen long-term vulnerability, especially in flood-prone regions already experiencing heavy rainfall and infrastructure damage. They warn that Nigeria’s reactive approach to disasters continues to strain public resources and deepen the impact on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Government representatives, however, maintain that the decision is strategic, aimed at balancing urgent humanitarian needs with available fiscal space amid competing national priorities.

As the rainy season intensifies, stakeholders are urging improved early warning systems, drainage infrastructure upgrades, and stronger state-level preparedness to reduce future flood losses.