02 November 2012, Sweetcrude, LAGOS — MOBIL Producing Nigeria Unlimited and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, EEPNL, both ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria, have donated N80 million in aid of victims of the recent flood disaster that affected 24 states in the country.
The donation, which was made to the Nigerian Red Cross Society, NRCS, came in the wake of a confirmation by the National Emergency Management Authority, NEMA, that over one million people have been displaced by the floods.
Making the donation in Lagos, Lead Country Manager, ExxonMobil Affiliates in Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Mark Ward, said through partnership with the NRCS, the companies were working to provide relief to five of the most severely affected states including Akwa Ibom and Rivers
states.
According to Ward, the grant would cover medical services, provision of water and basic amenities and other disaster prevention, risk reduction/preparedness and resilience activities.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the NRCS, National Vice-President, NRCS, Deacon Timothy Oladele said moves were already in place for a centralised response.
He said: “This great and timely donation from ExxonMobil will be of great relief to the flood victims and go a long way in bringing succour to them. The Nigerian Red Cross on its part will ensure that the relief materials get to the victims as we are independent, and always guided by the fundamental principles of the Red Cross which includes neutrality and impartiality.
“This will focus on areas in the 10 identified states of Adamawa, Niger, Kogi, Delta, Bayelsa, Anambra, Edo, Taraba, Plateau and Benue. These states have been chosen as being among the most affected due to their proximity to Rivers Benue and Niger.”
At least 50,000 victims are being targeted with materials and support for emergency shelter and recovery, basic household items, provision of water and sanitation facilities in camps, sensitization on flood related health risks; water, sanitation and hygiene promotion
activities.