The Migrants, Displaced Persons and Refugees Unit of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) on Wednesday 20th August, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Abuja.
The delegation, led by Reverend Father Augustine Akhogba, Secretary of the Unit, was received on behalf of the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, by the Director of Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Abdullahi Adamu Usur.
Mr. Usur welcomed the delegation and acknowledged receipt of CSN’s letter seeking collaboration with NEMA. He reiterated NEMA’s readiness to partner with recognized humanitarian organizations in line with its mandate of coordinating disaster and emergency management in Nigeria. He further requested CSN to clearly outline possible areas of collaboration.
In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Akhogba extended appreciation to NEMA for its support and past participation in CSN programmes. He highlighted the Unit’s focus areas, including support for migrants, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees, capacity building, sensitization, and awareness creation. He also provided a brief overview of CSN’s origin and functions, emphasizing its role in supporting victims of disasters with a focus on vulnerable populations.
CSN expressed interest in working with NEMA on issues relating to migrants, refugees, and disaster management.
The Director of Relief and Rehabilitation explained NEMA’s statutory role in coordinating disaster and emergency management, including displaced persons and migrants. For enhanced collaboration, NEMA advised CSN to register with relevant authorities responsible for accrediting FBOs, NGOs, and INGOs in Nigeria. CSN requested the appointment of a desk officer to strengthen communication and coordination.
The meeting marked a significant step towards strengthening partnership between NEMA and the CSN. Both parties expressed their commitment to collaborate in supporting vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by disasters, displacement, and humanitarian crises.
20th August, 2025
