Sani Haruna
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the World Bank, has trained more than 40 representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), and security officials in Kebbi State on Emergency Preparedness and Response (EP&R).
The two-day Stakeholders Engagement Workshop, held in Birnin Kebbi, focused on equipping participants with strategies to strengthen disaster risk reduction and improve emergency response, particularly in the face of predicted flooding in low-lying communities.
NEMA, World Bank Partner Kano on Flood Preparedness, Disaster Mgt
Speaking at the opening ceremony, NEMA Director-General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, said the initiative was designed to enhance collaboration and preparedness ahead of potential disasters.
She noted that heavy rainfall and water releases from upstream dams pose significant risks to Kebbi and other states.
Represented by the Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, Dr. Isaya Isah Chonoko, the DG urged the support of Governor Nasir Idris and the Kebbi State Government in driving awareness campaigns, mobilizing resources, and providing policy direction for disaster management.
“In the coming days, we will engage in fruitful discussions, share knowledge, and develop strategies to strengthen emergency preparedness and response capabilities,” she said.
Flooding: NEMA Sensitizes Communities on Disaster Preparedness
The project, according to her, seeks to establish robust EP&R structures at the local level, build a database of volunteers, and advocate for the creation of Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) across Kebbi communities.
Hajiya Zubaida added that the initiative would also empower the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to improve coordination at sub-national levels while boosting disaster risk reduction and management efforts.
She commended the World Bank Group for its technical and financial support, as well as the stakeholders who contributed to the success of the project.
The workshop is expected to provide participants with practical tools and frameworks to mitigate disaster risks, improve response mechanisms, and enhance resilience in Kebbi State.