In a bid to strengthen collaboration in disaster management, a delegation from the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FCT SEMA), led by its Director General, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, paid a courtesy visit to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
The team was warmly received by the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, who was represented by the Director of Planning, Research, and Forecasting, Mr. Onimode Bandele. Other key members of NEMA present at the meeting included the Special Assistant to the DG Hajia Rakiya Bello, Director of Relief and Rehabilitation, Usur Abdullahi, Director of Disaster Risk Reduction, Idris Mohammed, Director of Finance, Aminu Boyi, and Assistant Director of Search and Rescue, Lydia Wagami.
During the meeting, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed commended NEMA for its continued support of FCT SEMA and emphasized the need for greater collaboration. He strongly advocated for the passage of a law to legally establish FCT SEMA, ensuring that the agency could function effectively with a clear legal mandate. Additionally, he called for more stakeholder meetings to enhance disaster preparedness and coordination among emergency response agencies.
In response, Mr. Onimode Bandele, on behalf of NEMA’s Director General, welcomed the FCT SEMA delegation and expressed appreciation for their visit. He acknowledged the crucial role of FCT SEMA and assured them that NEMA would work closely with the National Assembly Committee on Emergency Management to facilitate the passage of the necessary legislation. He further encouraged FCT SEMA to utilize NEMA’s Hazard Risk Analysis document to identify potential risks and develop strategic mitigation measures. Mr. Onimode also assured the delegation that NEMA would take the lead in an advocacy meeting, in collaboration with FCT SEMA, to engage with the Honorable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, on the agency’s legal backing and operational needs.
In his remarks, Azeez Kadiri, Deputy Director of Administration at FCT SEMA, expressed gratitude to NEMA for its unwavering support in enhancing emergency response efforts within the FCT.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of souvenirs, symbolizing the commitment to continued partnership between the two organizations
