The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), with support from NHF/UNOCHA, has trained 70 community volunteers in Adamawa State on flood early warning systems as part of efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and anticipatory action at the community level.
The training, held at the Adamawa State Branch Office of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Yola, brought together 35 volunteers from NIRHSA and another 35 from SOCU.
Participants were trained on flood early warning mechanisms and the processes for implementing activities under the six-month project.
The session also featured interactive discussions and scenario-based exercises designed to help volunteers understand how early warning information can be communicated effectively and translated into timely action before a disaster occurs.
The Coordinator, National Society Development, Abdulmutallab Sufiyan, facilitated the training.
Speaking on behalf of the seven participating Local Government Areas, Shallom Bullus Taiya of the Numan Local Government Area said the scenario-based approach had broadened participants’ understanding of insurance accessibility and its application within the anticipatory action framework.
He said the practical nature of the training would help volunteers better understand early warning information and communicate it effectively to communities.
Participants said the training had improved their understanding of flood early warning and preparedness, adding that they would share the knowledge and skills acquired with communities in their respective Local Government Areas.
The training is aimed at preparing volunteers to support communities before floods occur by helping them understand early warnings, communicate relevant information and encourage timely protective action.
The initiative reflects the Red Cross’ emphasis on anticipatory action, which seeks to shift disaster management from responding after emergencies occur to taking practical steps before hazards cause significant harm.
Throughout the six-month implementation period, the trained volunteers are expected to apply the knowledge and skills gained during the training in their respective communities and contribute to strengthening local preparedness for flood-related emergencies.
