By Alhaji Kabir, Birnin Kebbi
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the World Bank, has trained over 40 MDAs, NGOs, Civil Society Organisations (NSOs) and Security Operatives working in Kebbi State on Emergency Preparedness and Response (EP&R).
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 2-day Stakeholders Engagement Workshop held at the Presidential Lodge in Birnin Kebbi, the Director-General of NEMA, Hajiya Zubaida Umar said the aim of the workshop is to brainstorm on current predictions on potential flooding in low-lying areas due to heavy downpour and water release from upstream dams which Kebbi State is among, to work actively with all stakeholders to mitigate these risks expectations.
Zubaida who was represented by the Director, Disaster Risk Reduction of NEMA, Dr. Isaya Isah Chonoko also urged for support of the state government of Governor, Nasir Idris in promoting awareness, resource mobilisation, and policy guidance for this project.
She noted in the next few days, NEMA will engage in fruitful discussion, share knowledge, and develop strategies to enhance our emergency preparedness and response capabilities.
According to her, the objective of the project are multifaceted and includes establishing a robust EP&R structure in every LGAs in Kebbi, with a view to building their capabilities, developing a comprehensive database of volunteers advocating for the adoption and inauguration of Local Emergency Maintenance Committees (LEMCs).
“It is expected that with this project, SEMA will be able to enhance disaster coordination at sub-national levels and improve disaster risk reduction efforts and management,” the DG said.
I expressed gratitude to the World Bank Group for their support and collaboration in addition to the efforts of our team and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to fruition,” she added.
