Nigeria: NEMA backs ECOWAS entry into disaster-resilient infrastructure coalition

by Featured NewsSearch and Rescue

Nigeria event launches ECOWAS membership in CDRI

ECOWAS has formally launched its membership in the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) at an event in Abuja.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, used the launch to reaffirm the agency’s commitment to promoting infrastructure resilience as part of disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation and sustainable development.

Umar described the development as a strategic milestone aimed at strengthening regional and global collaboration on infrastructure systems designed to withstand disaster and climate risks.

She linked the focus on resilience to hazards affecting West Africa, including floods, droughts, coastal erosion and extreme weather events.

Umar said these hazards are increasing in frequency and intensity and create a need for proactive investment in resilient infrastructure, stronger technical cooperation and risk-informed planning.

Stakeholders set out aims for coalition membership

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Abhishek Singh, said the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) was established to promote international cooperation focused on strengthening infrastructure systems to withstand disaster risks and safeguard lives, livelihoods and economic investments.

The ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, said ECOWAS membership in the coalition is intended to strengthen collective capacity to anticipate, withstand and recover from disasters, while supporting sustainable development.

The source described CDRI as a global partnership of governments, international organisations and stakeholders focused on advancing resilient infrastructure as part of disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation and sustainable development.

The launch in Abuja set out how the three organisations described the purpose of ECOWAS joining CDRI.

NEMA and federal leaders mark International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction

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Why Disaster Risk Reduction is shaping Nigeria’s future safety plans

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has joined the global commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), held on Monday 13 October 2025 at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre in Abuja.

Themed “Building Resilience, Not Disasters,” the event was attended by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who served as Special Guest of Honour.

NEMA said the occasion, established by the United Nations, provided an opportunity for countries to reaffirm their commitment to proactive disaster prevention and resilience building.

The agency’s Director General, Mrs Zubaida Umar, said the event’s theme reflected NEMA’s operational philosophy and its focus on community empowerment.

Mrs Umar stated: “The theme, ‘Building Resilience, Not Disasters,’ speaks directly to our operational philosophy at NEMA.”

“It also aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places emphasis on sustainable development, human security and the protection of lives and livelihoods.”

Federal Government commits to national resilience

Vice President Kashim Shettima commended NEMA’s leadership for advancing a proactive approach to disaster prevention.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s continued support for NEMA and related agencies to strengthen capacity and coordination in national disaster management.

Senator Shettima said: “Disaster risk reduction remains an essential pillar of national development.”

“The Federal Government recognizes the critical role of NEMA in mitigating the effects of disasters and ensuring that our communities are not only protected but also resilient.”

“This administration will continue to provide the necessary support to enhance institutional capacity and coordination in this regard.”

Focus on early warning and inter-agency coordination

According to NEMA, presentations at the event explored topics including early warning mechanisms, inter-agency coordination, climate adaptation, and community-based resilience initiatives.

Delegates included senior government officials, diplomats, representatives of the United Nations, international partners, civil society organisations and scholars.

Mrs Umar said NEMA is prioritising preventive measures, capacity building and early warning systems as central elements of its strategy.

She noted that the agency is deepening partnerships across governance levels to embed risk reduction and preparedness into national development planning.

Nigeria reaffirms commitment to the Sendai Framework

NEMA said the 2025 commemoration reaffirmed Nigeria’s alignment with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030).

Under Mrs Umar’s leadership, the agency has continued to shift its approach from reactive emergency relief to preventive planning and resilience-focused programming.

The agency said the discussions held at the IDDRR event reinforced Nigeria’s long-term goal of safeguarding lives and livelihoods through integrated risk management and institutional collaboration.

As the ceremony concluded, stakeholders reiterated a shared call to “build resilience, not disasters” and to strengthen collective responsibility for national safety.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction highlights the growing emphasis on preparedness and resilience across emergency management systems.

For fire and rescue services, this approach aligns with the development of risk-informed planning, early warning communication and coordinated multi-agency response frameworks.

Disaster management professionals and emergency planners can draw on NEMA’s example of embedding resilience within national strategy to enhance institutional readiness and public safety.

The focus on education, local empowerment and preventive infrastructure is particularly relevant to those designing or implementing community-level response systems in hazard-prone regions.

NEMA calls for proactive disaster risk reduction in Nigeria’s Ondo State

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NEMA calls for sustained emergency preparedness in Ondo State

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called on Nigerian states to adopt proactive and continuous measures for disaster risk reduction.

According to NEMA, the appeal was made on 10 August 2025 by its Director General Zubaida Umar, who was represented by Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele.

NEMA said the remarks came during a courtesy visit to the Governor of Ondo State, ahead of the official launch of the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Project in the state.

The agency commended the Ondo State Government for what it described as a forward-thinking approach to disaster management.

It added that Ondo State is one of seven selected for the EPR project based on its preparedness and governance.

EPR project objectives and partnerships

NEMA stated that the EPR project is being implemented in collaboration with the World Bank.

According to the agency, the initiative is designed to strengthen early warning systems, improve community resilience, and enable timely response to emergencies such as flooding and sea incursion.

It said the project’s scope covers both infrastructure development and public sensitisation measures to ensure communities are prepared.

The organisation explained that the selected states will receive targeted support to integrate risk reduction into planning and policy frameworks.

NEMA added that the programme is part of a wider national effort to standardise emergency response capacity.

Ondo State’s disaster prevention approach

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said his administration is committed to safeguarding lives and property through deliberate prevention measures.

He said the state’s inclusion in the EPR project was due to proactive flood control and environmental protection policies, rather than extreme vulnerability.

“We are intentional and deliberate about preventing emergencies, especially in the area of flood control,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.

“The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with other relevant agencies, has been mandated to ensure that our people are protected through effective policies, infrastructure, and sensitization.”

The governor said the government has maintained a focus on preparedness in order to mitigate the impact of potential disasters.

Addressing sea incursion challenges

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the state is tackling the recurring problem of sea incursion in the Aiyetoro Community and nearby areas.

He stated that his government is engaging with the Federal Government and development partners to secure a lasting solution.

According to the governor, these discussions include both technical and financial considerations to ensure any intervention is sustainable.

The governor said that protecting coastal communities remains a priority for his administration.

He added that work is ongoing to integrate coastal risk management into broader environmental planning.

Stakeholder engagement in project launch

NEMA reported that the courtesy visit and EPR project flag-off brought together key stakeholders.

It said these included officials from the Ondo State Government, NEMA, the World Bank, and other partners.

According to the agency, the event marked a step in strengthening coordinated emergency preparedness in the state.

The agency stated that the project framework encourages inter-agency collaboration to maximise efficiency.

It added that lessons learned from the pilot states could inform future national rollouts.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Fire and safety professionals can draw operational insight from the integration of early warning systems into broader disaster preparedness planning.

The EPR project shows how government, international agencies, and local authorities can collaborate on prevention-focused infrastructure and public awareness.

Lessons from the approach in Ondo State may apply to fire risk reduction, particularly in developing coordinated policy, ensuring technical readiness, and building community resilience.

The emphasis on prevention over response also aligns with evolving safety management strategies in high-risk sectors.

NEMA calls for proactive disaster risk reduction in Nigeria’s Ondo State: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged Nigerian states to adopt sustained disaster risk reduction measures.

Director General Zubaida Umar made the call on 10 August 2025 during a visit to Ondo State, represented by Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele.

NEMA said the visit preceded the launch of the Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) Project in the state.

The agency stated that Ondo was selected as one of seven pilot states due to its proactive disaster management policies.

It explained that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank, aims to improve early warning systems, community resilience, and response to flooding and sea incursion.

Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said the state is committed to prevention, particularly in flood control.

He highlighted measures to address sea incursion in Aiyetoro Community and surrounding areas.

The launch was attended by NEMA, Ondo State officials, the World Bank, and other stakeholders.

Nigeria takes action: What NEMA’s new fire and flood strategy means for 2025

by Featured NewsFloodingSafety

Fire prevention campaign targets Lagos tanker drivers

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched a public safety initiative to address tanker-related fire risks in Lagos State, Nigeria.

According to NEMA, the Lagos Operations Office conducted a public sensitisation campaign in multiple locations across the state, targeting tanker drivers and at-risk communities.

The campaign began at OPIC, a known rest stop for tanker operators, where NEMA officials and Emergency Management Volunteers from the National Youth Service Corps distributed educational materials and delivered in-person safety briefings.

The agency stated that sessions focused on tanker explosion risks, fire safety precautions, and the need for individual responsibility in preventing incidents.

Practical guidance was provided to drivers, including advice on pre-departure inspections, fuel line checks, avoiding overfilling, routine vehicle maintenance, and participation in regular training programmes.

NEMA also advised members of the public to avoid fuel collection at accident sites and to remain at a safe distance until emergency responders arrive.

Industry engagement on disaster risk reduction

The awareness campaign continued with a visit to the NUPENG office at NNPC Ejigbo.

NEMA reported that the outreach included briefings with union members on road safety, fire prevention, and community-level risk reduction strategies.

According to the agency, the emphasis was placed on a shared approach to reducing the frequency and severity of tanker-related emergencies.

NUPENG members were said to have welcomed the engagement and expressed support for further dissemination of fire safety messages within their networks.

The campaign forms part of wider public education efforts being undertaken by NEMA to reduce fire incidents and improve community safety in Lagos and surrounding areas.

National flood response centre inaugurated in Abuja

Separately, NEMA has announced the official opening of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) to coordinate flood response measures across Nigeria.

The agency said the NEOC was inaugurated by NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar, represented by Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele, Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting.

According to NEMA, the centre will serve as a central coordination hub linking federal and sub-national entities, enabling more effective disaster response planning and operational support.

The NEOC is intended to provide a central platform for real-time flood monitoring, data collection, information sharing, and deployment of response resources.

NEMA reported that the centre’s establishment reflects its preparedness efforts ahead of the anticipated 2025 flood season.

The centre became operational immediately following its launch.

Real-time data platform to support 2025 flood response

During the NEOC staff inauguration, Zubaida Umar called for professionalism and diligence among personnel.

The agency stated that she emphasised the importance of continuous data updates and maintaining a reliable flood information dashboard.

According to NEMA, the dashboard will be used to support timely decision-making and guide response strategies during emergencies.

The agency explained that the NEOC will track flood developments across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

It said the platform would help coordinate multiple agencies involved in emergency preparedness and recovery.

Dr Bandele noted that the NEOC’s data-driven approach is central to NEMA’s strategy for the current year’s flood management.

NEMA outlines integrated safety strategy

NEMA stated that the combination of public education and data coordination reflects a multi-level approach to disaster preparedness.

By addressing both fire and flood risks, the agency said it aims to reduce casualties and infrastructure loss during emergencies.

According to NEMA, these initiatives represent a shift towards proactive safety engagement in high-risk regions.

The agency reiterated its call for public cooperation, particularly among road users and communities in flood-prone areas.

NEMA added that it will continue working with state agencies, unions, and civil society partners to improve emergency readiness nationwide.

Nigeria: NEMA launches fire safety drive and opens national disaster operations centre: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) launched a fire safety awareness campaign in Lagos State.

The campaign targeted tanker drivers and at-risk communities.

NEMA conducted outreach at OPIC and NUPENG’s NNPC Ejigbo office.

Drivers received fire safety advice, including vehicle checks and training.

The public was advised to avoid fuel scooping and wait for responders.

NUPENG committed to helping spread the campaign’s message.

Separately, NEMA opened the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Abuja.

The NEOC will coordinate 2025 flood response across all 36 states and the FCT.

It provides real-time monitoring, data management, and resource deployment.

Director General Zubaida Umar urged staff to maintain an accurate flood dashboard.

The NEOC began operations immediately after the inauguration.

NEMA stated these actions reflect a national shift to proactive risk reduction.

Nigeria emergency response: NEMA strategic plan and NCC partnership update

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Strategic plan developed to address climate, displacement and public health challenges

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has announced the development of a new strategic plan covering the period 2025 to 2029.

According to NEMA, this marks the first time the agency has created a formal document to guide its long-term strategy.

NEMA stated that the plan was created through consultation and evidence-based processes.

It explained that the plan responds to multiple pressures, including climate-related disasters, public health emergencies, displacement and insecurity.

The agency noted that the plan aims to improve coordination and accountability in national humanitarian operations.

Zubaida Umar, Director General of NEMA, said during the stakeholder validation workshop: “It’s the first time ever that the Agency has taken the bold step to develop such document and it will cover the period 2025 to 2029.”

Zubaida Umar continued: “The urgent realities facing our country – from climate-related disasters, insecurity, displacement and public health emergencies to the increasing demand for effective coordination and accountability in our humanitarian efforts.”

Zubaida Umar added: “The process of developing the strategic plan has been consultative, evidence-informed.”

Presentations at the event were delivered by Dr Umesi Emenike, Director of Human Resources Management, with participation from NEMA Directors and representatives from disaster management organisations.

NEMA and NCC seek to strengthen national emergency call systems

NEMA has also confirmed closer collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to improve disaster communications.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the cooperation aims to enable faster, more coordinated responses to emergency incidents across Nigeria.

The announcement followed a meeting between NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar and Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

NEMA stated that the partnership will focus on expanding emergency communications, strengthening early warning systems, and supporting public education about emergency procedures.

Zubaida Umar said: “We must expand the scope of cooperation between NEMA and NCC, particularly in enhancing emergency communication systems, promoting disaster risk reduction initiatives, and supporting the development and dissemination of early warning systems.”

Zubaida Umar also noted: “Seamless interoperability between the national emergency number and NEMA’s contact number would ensure Nigerians in distress can access timely and coordinated emergency response services.”

Dr Aminu Maida responded by affirming the NCC’s support for the partnership.

Dr Aminu Maida said: “We must increase public awareness about the availability and proper use of emergency call numbers to better serve citizens.”

Strategic plan responds to humanitarian coordination needs

According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the strategic plan responds to challenges that have affected the agency’s ability to deliver efficient disaster management.

It said the rising frequency of climate-related incidents and the impacts of displacement and insecurity have created growing pressure for a unified response system.

NEMA explained that the plan is designed to improve its operational capacity and increase efficiency when responding to emergencies.

The agency stated that the document reflects engagement with key stakeholders across sectors to ensure alignment with international coordination standards.

It added that the strategic plan includes provisions for institutional strengthening and clearer accountability measures in humanitarian operations.

The agency confirmed that the plan will run from 2025 through 2029 and will be reviewed periodically.

NEMA and NCC partnership targets disaster risk reduction and public safety

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reported that the partnership with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is part of its broader effort to enhance national disaster risk reduction mechanisms.

It said that the collaboration will support the development of early warning systems and improve the interoperability of emergency communication channels.

NEMA noted that this includes technical support and policy coordination to ensure consistent messaging during emergencies.

The Nigerian Communications Commission confirmed that it has activated the national emergency number and will work with NEMA to improve public accessibility to emergency services.

NCC stated that raising public awareness and improving training around emergency call systems will be a shared responsibility between both agencies.

Dr Aminu Maida reiterated the Commission’s intention to provide continued support to NEMA in developing effective communication tools.

Nigeria emergency response: NEMA strategic plan and NCC partnership update: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has announced a strategic plan for 2025 to 2029.

The plan is the first of its kind developed by the agency.

NEMA stated that the plan addresses challenges such as climate-related disasters, displacement and public health emergencies.

The agency said the plan was developed through consultation and evidence-based processes.

Zubaida Umar, Director General of NEMA, made the announcement during a stakeholder validation workshop.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) hosted a meeting with NEMA to discuss joint efforts in disaster communications.

NEMA confirmed it will partner with NCC to improve emergency communication systems and public awareness.

Zubaida Umar called for interoperability between the national emergency number and NEMA’s emergency contact number.

NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr Aminu Maida affirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting emergency communications.

Both agencies said the partnership will include technical development and public education.

NEMA wins NIPR’s Outstanding Crisis Communication in Government Award

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The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Lagos State Chapter has recognised the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) with the award of most Outstanding Crisis Communication in Government for the Agency’s flood preparedness and Response Campaign in 2024.

The award was presented by Chairman of the State Chapter of NIPR, Comfort Obot Nwankwo, to the Director General NEMA, Zubaida Umar, in Abuja.

Chairman of the State Chapter of NIPR, Comfort Obot Nwankwo’s statement

The NIPR Chairman, Comfort Obot Nwankwo said: “The NEMA campaign stood out for its innovative and effective communication strategies, utilizing digital platforms, public engagement, and timely updates to educate the public and coordinate responses during Nigeria’s annual flood seasons.”

Director General Nema, Zubaida Umar

Responding, the Director General NEMA, Zubaida Umar, appreciated the NIPR for the award and dedicated it to staff of the Agency across the country for their commitment to work.

NEMA given NIPR award: Summary

NEMA has been awarded by the NIPR for having an Outstanding Crisis Communication in Government for the Agency’s flood preparedness and Response Campaign in 2024.

NEMA urges Nigerian local councils to set up emergency committees

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Strengthening disaster preparedness in Nigerian local councils

The Director General of Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, has urged the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) to establish Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) in their council areas.

Speaking in Abuja during a visit by ALGON’s National President, Hon Bello Lawal, and his delegation, Mrs Umar outlined the purpose of these committees.

She stated that LEMCs should be led by the Local Government Council Chairman or their representative.

Their role includes enhancing early warning systems, mobilising local resources, and ensuring timely interventions during emergencies.

Mrs Umar emphasised the importance of collaboration, saying: “At NEMA, we recognise the critical role local governments play in ensuring the success of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.”

Promoting partnership for grassroots disaster response

Mrs Umar also highlighted the importance of partnerships with ALGON to create inclusive and effective disaster management strategies tailored to local needs.

She stated: “We remain committed to fostering a strong partnership with ALGON to ensure our strategies are inclusive, effective, and tailored to meet the unique needs of every community.”

This collaboration is expected to strengthen grassroots emergency response mechanisms by leveraging local government resources and expertise.

ALGON’s commitment to disaster management

Hon Bello Lawal, ALGON’s National President, described the visit as a step towards enhanced cooperation.

He noted that ALGON’s new leadership intends to collaborate with NEMA on disaster management strategies at the grassroots level.

He also pointed out the opportunities arising from the financial autonomy granted to local government councils, which now require consultation and guidance from NEMA to optimise disaster management resources.

As the umbrella body for Nigeria’s 774 local governments, ALGON seeks to build capacity for disaster preparedness and response by working closely with NEMA.

Building a framework for local emergency committees

Both organisations view the establishment of LEMCs as a practical solution to improve disaster management at the local level.

The committees are expected to provide a structured approach to handling emergencies, leveraging local knowledge and resources to mitigate risks.

This partnership aims to prioritise community needs, ensuring that response efforts are efficient and timely in addressing potential emergencies.

NEMA urges Nigerian local councils to set up emergency committees: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called on local councils in Nigeria to establish Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) to enhance grassroots disaster preparedness and response.

During a visit by ALGON’s National President, Hon Bello Lawal, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs Zubaida Umar, outlined the committees’ roles in early warning, resource mobilisation, and emergency interventions.

ALGON expressed its commitment to collaborating with NEMA to strengthen disaster management initiatives, particularly in light of financial autonomy for local governments.

This partnership aims to improve community-level disaster response by integrating local expertise and resources into a structured framework.