The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved N83.2 billion for interventions by the Anticipatory Action Task Force (AATF) to mitigate the impact of flooding and other climate-related emergencies across Nigeria.

The approval was granted on Thursday at the council’s 158th meeting following a presentation by the Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, on the need for proactive measures against seasonal flooding and disasters.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chaired the meeting, said the fund underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to disaster preparedness, stressing that emergency management should move from a reactive to a preventive approach.

Shettima also called on state governments to collaborate with the Federal Government in addressing logistical and regulatory challenges hindering agricultural exports, noting that Nigeria must move beyond exporting raw materials and focus on building value-added production chains.

According to him, improving port operations, meeting international standards, and strengthening links between farms, factories and global markets are critical to economic growth and increased earnings for farmers and manufacturers.

The Vice President further urged stakeholders to ensure that ongoing economic reforms translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians, particularly farmers, vulnerable groups, unemployed youths and future generations.