NEMA, UNDP partner on disaster reduction strategies
By Khadija Aliyu
Preparations have reached advanced stage,for the development of a national risk reduction strategy, and action plan to mitigate disasters,by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The NEMA Director General, Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed Habib, made the disclosure, at the opening of a two day workshop on Nigeria’s disaster risk reduction strategic action plan, 2023-2030,held in Kano
Represented by NEMA’s Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, Dr Daniel Obot, Ahmed Habib explained that,the need to develop the plan arose, from the assessment findings conducted by the overseas development institute.
He said, the unprecedented recurring boat mishap, building collapse, urban market fires and hydro meteorological hazards , which have become dominant in Nigeria’s disaster risk profile compelled them, to develop the management plan.
He stressed that, the project is also within the context of multi partnership implementation, led by the UNDP in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and other regional organizations.
“For us in Nigeria, the Sahel Resilience Project is expected to support the renewed hope agenda of the Federal Government especially in the areas of poverty eradication, food security and inclusivity”
UNDP representative for Sahel Resilience Project Nigeria, Mr. Sunday Amama, described the workshop as apt,saying that, communities are being impacted by environmental and health hazards.
He pointed out that ,disaster risk management at all levels, was key to building the resilience of communities and economies.
The representative emphasized the need for organizational culture change, political commitment, motivation and financial backing, as well as protecting the population against current and future disaster risks.
“The new disaster risk reduction strategy will promote policy coherence related to sustainable development, poverty eradication and climate change, aligning with the sustainable development goals”
Also speaking, NEMA Territorial Coordinator, Kano Office Dr.Nurudeen Abdullahi maintained that, the workshop would bring positive impact to develop risk management plan.
The workshop is themed: “Strengthening Capacities for Disaster Risk Reduction and Adaptation for Resilience in the Sahel Region: Fostering Risk-informed Solutions for Sustainable Development”
