NEMA seeks stakeholders’ partnership in disaster management

The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has called for inter-agency synergy between stakeholders to enhance disaster management in Kaduna State.

The North-West Zonal Coordinator of the agency, Imam Garki, made the call at a Stakeholders Review Meeting of 2023 Disaster Activities on Wednesday in Kaduna.

Garki said coordination and synergy among disaster response units and agents was important in managing disasters.

He added that the meeting was aimed at providing vital opportunities for the stakeholders to come together and share project successes and challenges.

“This meeting will serve as a platform for us to exchange insights , share best practices and forge innovative solutions to mitigate the impact of disasters and enhance our capacity to adapt and recover swiftly,” he said.

On his part, the acting Zonal Director, North-West Zone of the agency, Ishaya Chinoko, said synergy among disaster response units and agents was important in managing disaster or crisis.

He said the stakeholders need to understand the growing importance of effective disaster preparedness and response in safeguarding communities, infrastructure, livelihood and the environment.

Chinoko said, “We have witnessed the devastating impact of disasters, from windstorm and floods to fires; highlighting the critical need for coordinated efforts and proactive measures.”

Speaking earlier, the Director, Department of Fire Service and Public Safety, Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Paul Aboi, said emergency management fell under three categories; the National, State and Local Government.

He said enlightenment was key to disaster management, especially when planning emergency strategies.

Aboi said, “We can not avoid natural disasters, but we can reduce them.”