The National Economic Council has approved 83.21 billion naira for the implementation of an Anticipatory Action Task Force aimed at mitigating flooding and other climate-related disasters across the country.

This approval followed a 50 percent reduction of the initial 166.42 billion naira request submitted to the council by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu.

The decision was reached on Thursday during the council’s 158th meeting presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu stated that the approved funds will be drawn through the Federation Account Allocation Committee to facilitate timely interventions.

“We know that flooding now is almost an occurring decimal, and the Federal Government were very happy that we are putting some retroactive steps to make sure that the mitigation comes on in time to save the states,” Otu said.

He explained that the 50 percent budget cut was a resource-conscious initial step rather than a rejection of the urgency of the request.

“This is the first time as a nation that we are taking proactive steps. Most of the time, we’ve waited till flood has done its damage before we act, but this time around we are taking proactive steps to mitigate the possibility of the flood, which is a perennial issue.”

Other state governors highlighted additional development plans discussed during the session. Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang noted that this intervention represents the first phase of a broader flood management strategy, which includes long-term infrastructure such as reservoirs to manage water releases from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam.

Additionally, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf disclosed that the council considered the proposed National Regional Development Policy for 2026 to 2030 to address spatial inequalities, while Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke announced that the council reviewed a proposal to strengthen Nigeria’s agro-export value chain, which could unlock about “$50bn in annual agro-export potential currently tied to compliance gaps.”

Renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of Saheeto Signature, Prince Saheed Kekere-Ekun, popularly known as “The King of Small Chops,” joined top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the party’s grand finale rally in Ado-Ekiti, throwing his weight behind Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s bid for a second term in office.

The well-attended rally brought together Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, serving governors, ministers, lawmakers and thousands of party supporters in what has been described as one of the largest political gatherings in Ekiti State ahead of the governorship election.

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Prince Kekere-Ekun, whose influence extends beyond business into philanthropy and public engagement, was seen interacting with several party leaders, including Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the APC presented a united front in support of Governor Oyebanji.

Speaking after the rally, Prince Kekere-Ekun said his presence in Ekiti was driven by his belief in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership and the progress recorded under his administration.

“Governor Biodun Oyebanji has shown genuine commitment to the development of Ekiti State. His style of leadership is inclusive, people-focused and development-driven. I came to stand with him because I believe he deserves the opportunity to continue the good work he has started.”

He described the massive turnout at the rally as a clear indication of the governor’s growing popularity across the state.

“The atmosphere here speaks volumes. You can feel the enthusiasm and the confidence of the people. It is inspiring to see Ekiti people united behind a leader they believe has their interest at heart.”

Prince Kekere-Ekun also urged party supporters to remain peaceful and focused as the election approaches.

“Democracy is strengthened when people participate peacefully and responsibly. I encourage everyone to come out, support the candidate of their choice and ensure that the process remains peaceful. For me, Governor Oyebanji has earned the trust and confidence of the people through his performance.”

Widely recognised as “The King of Small Chops” for building one of Nigeria’s most successful hospitality brands, Prince Kekere-Ekun has continued to expand his influence beyond entrepreneurship, maintaining strong relationships across business, politics and community development.

His appearance at the APC mega rally further reflects his support for progressive governance and his commitment to initiatives aimed at advancing development and economic growth.

As Ekiti prepares for the governorship election, Prince Saheed Kekere-Ekun’s presence alongside the party’s top leadership added yet another notable voice to the growing campaign for Governor Oyebanji’s re-election, reinforcing the message of continuity and confidence in the administration’s vision for the state.