The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has intensified efforts to enhance the capacity of emergency responders in Nigeria to address flooding and other disasters. This move is aimed at mitigating the impact of emergencies in the country. NEMA's Head of Operations for Abia and Imo, Mr. Innocent Nweze, disclosed this information during a refresher training on Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) operations in Owerri.
The training, which was attended by NEMA personnel and other critical stakeholders, focused on strengthening the capacity of emergency responders to deal with the increasing complexity of urban environments. Mr. Nweze emphasized that the programme had become crucial due to the growing threat posed by building collapses, landslides, explosions, industrial accidents, and communal conflicts. He noted that these challenges had been compounded by flooding in various parts of the country.
According to Mr. Nweze, the USAR programme requires well-trained, properly equipped, and coordinated response teams. He stressed that USAR operations are among the most demanding emergency response activities, requiring specialized knowledge, appropriate equipment, teamwork, discipline, effective communication, and the ability to make timely decisions under challenging conditions. The programme aims to save lives and reduce suffering during emergencies.
The training was designed to improve the capacity of emergency responders while fostering cooperation among the various agencies involved in disaster management. Mr. Nweze explained that it would also promote the application of internationally recognized principles and good practices in search and rescue operations, particularly in urban areas. The programme featured a simulation exercise at the Otammiri River, where participants demonstrated procedures for rescuing a drowning person.
Mr. Nweze commended NEMA's Director-General, Mrs. Umar Zubaida, and the agency's management for their support for the programme. He also acknowledged the contributions of partner organizations towards facilitating its implementation. The training was attended by representatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Fire Service, and National Inland Waterways Authority.
The NEMA official urged participants to remain committed to developing competent and well-coordinated USAR teams capable of responding quickly and safely during emergencies. He emphasized that effective disaster management is a collective responsibility and that programmes like this demonstrate the importance of collaboration in building resilient communities.
The programme aims to enhance the capacity of emergency responders to address the growing threat of flooding and other disasters in Nigeria. With the country's increasing vulnerability to emergencies, NEMA's efforts to strengthen its USAR programme are crucial in mitigating the impact of disasters and saving lives. The agency's commitment to providing training and equipment to emergency responders is a step towards building a more resilient nation.
Key points
- NEMA has stepped up efforts to strengthen the capacity of emergency responders to deal with flooding and other disasters through its Urban Search and Rescue programme.
- The programme requires well-trained, properly equipped, and coordinated response teams to effectively respond to emergencies.
- The training aims to promote the application of internationally recognized principles and good practices in search and rescue operations, particularly in urban areas.
