By Desire Uzochukwu
The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Lagos State Branch, has taken its flood risk awareness campaign to Makoko, urging residents to embrace household disaster preparedness to protect lives, property and livelihoods as part of efforts to build more resilient communities.
About 120 volunteers and members of the humanitarian organisation participated in an awareness walk through the waterfront community to mark the 2026 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), observed annually on October 13.
Held under the global theme, “Resilience Starts at Home,” the campaign focused on the need for individuals and families to take practical steps to prepare for floods and other emergencies before disaster strikes.
During the exercise, volunteers wearing Red Cross-branded T-shirts distributed Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials on flooding and disaster risk reduction to residents, taking preventive safety messages directly into the community.
The outreach was designed to improve public understanding of flood risks, encourage early preparedness and promote community participation in reducing the impact of disasters, particularly in vulnerable areas.
The awareness walk was flagged off by the Branch Vice-Chairman, Mr Segun Akande, alongside the Branch Secretary, Mr Olakunle Lasisi; the Disaster Management Officer, Mr Ige Oladimeji; and other branch leaders and members.
The Lagos State Branch stressed that disaster preparedness should begin at the household level, with individuals and families taking responsibility for identifying potential hazards and adopting preventive measures to reduce their exposure to emergencies.
It also underscored the importance of public education and direct community engagement in strengthening disaster preparedness, especially in flood-prone settlements where timely information and preventive action can help limit losses.
Through the Makoko outreach, the Nigerian Red Cross Society reaffirmed its commitment to disaster risk reduction, humanitarian response and the protection of vulnerable populations across Lagos State.
The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction provides an opportunity to promote awareness of disaster prevention and encourage governments, communities and individuals to take action towards safer and more resilient societies.
For the Nigerian Red Cross, the message from Makoko was clear: disaster preparedness must begin before an emergency occurs, with households playing a critical role in protecting lives and reducing risks.
