NEMA to strengthen coordination, early warning systems to curb flood disasters
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to setting up effective emergency preparedness and response structures in all local government areas to strengthen disaster coordination, data management, and early warning systems at the sub-national level.
Zubaida Umar, NEMA director general, made this known in her opening remarks at a two-day training workshop themed “Emergency Preparedness & Response Stakeholders Engagement Workshop” held in Maiduguri on Monday.
The training, organised by NEMA in partnership with the World Bank Group and the Borno State Government, aims to equip stakeholders with essential emergency response skills.
Umar emphasised the importance of strategic planning in ensuring timely and efficient emergency response.
Umar, represented by Bamidele Onimode, director, Planning and Research Forcasting, said the training for stakeholders was to define their roles and responsibilities in mitigating risks and effective response during emergencies at the grassroots level.
She reiterated the agency’s commitment to enhancing national resilience through proactive planning and multi-agency collaboration.
She said, “As we begin this two-day engagement, let us reflect on how far we have come, and more importantly, on how much more we can achieve together.
“I trust that the discussions, technical sessions, and planning dialogues that will take place here will further consolidate the progress we have collectively built across the federation. Together, let us continue to move from reaction to preparedness, from coordination to resilience, and from intention to sustainable.”
In his remarks, Oluwaseun Olowoporoku, who represented the World Bank Country Director, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Borno State through technical assistance, operational support, and knowledge exchange to strengthen resilience and emergency response capacity.
He stated, “The World Bank is backing this initiative in Borno State with a sense of urgency and responsibility. Global experience shows that every dollar invested in preparedness saves several more in response and recovery, while safeguarding lives and livelihoods.
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“This is a moment for innovation, collaboration, and concrete action. We build an Emergency Preparedness and Response system that is smart, inclusive, and effective for the people of Borno State.”
Olowoporoku praised the Borno State Government for its dedication to protecting lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure from the increasing threats posed by climate change and disaster risks.
Similarly, Ali Abdullahi Isa of the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (BOSEMA) expressed appreciation to NEMA for its leadership and commitment to safeguarding the people’s welfare. He assured that the Borno State Government would continue to strengthen collaboration and synergy with NEMA and other relevant agencies.
