By Zainab Bakare
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has distributed relief materials and building supplies to victims of recent fire outbreaks in Agbokim and Karaboat communities in Cross River State, bringing much-needed support to families affected by the disasters.
The intervention follows a devastating fire incident in Agbokim in August 2025, which destroyed homes and properties valued at millions of naira, leaving many residents displaced and struggling to recover.
Following a distress call from the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, NEMA carried out an on-the-spot assessment of the affected communities on January 27, 2026, to determine the level of damage and immediate needs of victims.
Flagging off the distribution exercise on Tuesday, NEMA Director-General, Zubaida Umar, represented by Mmandu Aisueni, Head of Operations at the NEMA Uyo Operations Office, expressed sympathy for the affected residents and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting disaster-hit communities across the country.
“We are here to sympathise with the victims and to assure you of our deep commitment to providing timely humanitarian assistance to disaster-affected communities not just in Cross River, but nationwide,” she said.
According to the agency, the intervention is part of ongoing efforts to provide humanitarian support to vulnerable individuals and communities affected by emergencies and disasters.
As part of the relief package, NEMA distributed 600 bags each of 25kg rice and garri, as well as 100 bags of 25kg beans. Victims also received 400 bags of cement alongside 60 cartons each of seasoning, salt, vegetable oil, and tomato paste to support both immediate feeding needs and rebuilding efforts.
Commending the intervention, Cross River State Government Secretary, Anthony Owan-Enoh, praised the Federal Government and NEMA for their swift response while appealing for sustained support to help residents fully recover from the losses.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Manyo Ayuk described the intervention as timely and impactful, noting that the assistance would go a long way in helping affected families rebuild their lives after the tragic fire incidents.
