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The National Economic Council has approved ₦83.21 billion for the implementation of an Anticipatory Action Task Force to reduce flooding and other climate-related disasters across Nigeria.
The approval followed a reduction from an initial ₦166.42 billion request submitted by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, effectively cutting the proposed funding by 50 per cent.
The decision was taken at the Council’s 158th meeting, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu said the approved funds would be drawn from the Federation Account Allocation Committee to support proactive flood mitigation efforts.
He said, “The purpose of the request was to seek the consideration of council for the approval and disbursement of funds through the Federal Account Allocation Committee to facilitate the implementation of the approved Anticipatory Action Task Force interventions aimed at mitigating the impact of anticipated flooding and other climate-related agencies across the country.
“We know that flooding now is almost an occurring decimal, and the Federal Government were very happy that we are putting some retroactive steps to make sure that the mitigation comes on in time to save the states.”
He noted that states historically affected by flooding were specifically considered during deliberations.
The Council ultimately approved only half of the requested amount, while agreeing to review the framework in future meetings.
“Council noted the importance of the AATF in addressing disasters and emergencies across the country.
“Council also underscored the fact that NEC must act promptly and must not be seen as always reacting to situations rather than being proactive when these disasters occur.
“Council approved the sum of ₦83.21 billion, 50 per cent of the proposed budget for the AATF, with a plan to review the framework at subsequent meetings as part of broader measures aimed at tackling flood and related disasters,” he stated.
Responding to questions on the 50 per cent reduction, Otu said the decision reflected a cautious first step rather than a rejection of urgency.
“I want you to know that this is the first time as a nation that we are taking proactive steps. Most of the time, we’ve waited till flood has done its damage before we act, but this time around we are taking proactive steps to mitigate the possibility of the flood, which is a perennial issue.
“Therefore, it’s a work in progress.”
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang said the intervention represents the first phase of a wider flood management strategy, including long-term infrastructure such as reservoirs to regulate water releases from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam.
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf said the Council also reviewed a draft National Regional Development Policy (2026–2030) aimed at addressing regional inequalities and improving coordination of development efforts.
He said governors directed the Minister of Regional Development to circulate the draft policy for further consultation with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke also said the Council considered proposals to strengthen Nigeria’s agro-export value chain and improve compliance with international port facility security standards.
He said the initiative could unlock about $50 billion in annual agro-export potential currently constrained by compliance gaps, particularly in crops such as sesame, ginger, soybean and cashew.
The Council directed further consultations on the proposal involving relevant ministries and agencies before final approval.
