PUBLIC RELATIONS USE BY BENUE STATE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

The study, “Public Relations Use by Benue State Emergency Management Agency: The 2022 Makurdi Flood in Benue State of Nigeria in Perspective”, evaluates BESEMA's public relations strategies during the 2022 Makurdi flood, based on Issues Management Theory. Utilizing a survey research design and questionnaires for data collection, the study reveals that publicity, especially news releases, was the primary public relations tool used by BESEMA. These strategies were employed extensively to sensitize the public about safety during the flood, with weekly public relations activities aimed at protecting residents in flood-prone areas. The application of these strategies significantly reduced potential losses from the flood, indicating their effectiveness. The study concludes that BESEMA’s use of publicity was effective in managing the 2022 flood crisis and recommends that the government should recruit more qualified personnel for BESEMA and other agencies to enhance disaster communication and public safety.