On February 25, 2025, the Lagos Territorial Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted an extensive training session for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving as Emergency Management Vanguards (EMVs). This session built upon their initial orientation, equipping them with crucial knowledge and skills related to disaster management in Nigeria. The training also emphasized the critical role of EMVs in enhancing community safety and resilience.
The training focused on four essential areas to improve participants’ preparedness and emergency response capabilities. First, an overview of disaster management in Nigeria provided insight into the country’s disaster landscape, highlighting challenges, strategies, and collaborative approaches for effective disaster management. Participants also received comprehensive guidance on basic first aid, learning how to provide immediate care to injured individuals or those experiencing medical emergencies before professional help arrives.
Another key aspect of the training covered fire safety tips, offering practical advice on fire prevention, risk reduction, and appropriate responses to fire incidents. Additionally, corps members received hands-on instruction on the proper use of fire extinguishers, ensuring they could operate them correctly and effectively in emergency situations.
The primary objective of the training was to enhance disaster risk reduction awareness and build resilient communities. The interactive session encouraged active participation, with EMVs engaging in discussions and practical demonstrations. Real-life emergency scenarios were simulated, allowing participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in a controlled environment. Following these simulations, the EMVs demonstrated their competency through hands-on exercises, showcasing their ability to respond effectively to emergencies. The session highlighted the importance of preparedness and teamwork, equipping corps members with valuable tools for contributing to disaster risk reduction efforts within their communities.
Through this initiative, NEMA continues to reinforce its commitment to fostering a culture of safety and resilience across Nigeria. By leveraging the enthusiasm and potential of young corps members, the agency aims to promote a proactive approach to disaster management and emergency response.
