The Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has assured the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) of effective collaboration to mitigate disasters during the rainy season. This commitment was made during a meeting at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, focusing on climatic changes and seasonal challenges.
Dr. Audi emphasized the NSCDC’s crucial role in crisis and disaster management, highlighting its membership in the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), which aims to protect populations and safeguard property and the environment during disasters. He noted that the NSCDC complements NEMA’s efforts by providing disaster alerts, ensuring security during relief distribution to internally displaced persons (IDPs), and supporting victims of emergencies nationwide.
“In line with the Memorandum of Understanding signed by our agencies, the NSCDC will continue to provide necessary security coverage and support to NEMA officials and beneficiaries of government relief materials,” said Dr. Audi.
NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, expressed gratitude for the longstanding cooperation between the two agencies, which has enhanced NEMA’s effectiveness. Her visit to the NSCDC was part of broader consultations with key stakeholders to improve service delivery.
“Nigeria’s disaster profile and humanitarian outlook call for strengthened collaboration between NEMA and NSCDC,” Mrs. Umar stated. She praised Dr. Audi for his consistent support in disaster management and emphasized the need for NSCDC to activate its emergency response teams to work with NEMA, particularly as the rainy season intensifies.
Mrs. Umar also highlighted reports from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which forecasted that 148 local government areas in 31 states are at high risk of flooding, while 249 local government areas in 35 states and the FCT are at moderate risk.
The strengthened partnership between NEMA and NSCDC aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response, ensuring the protection of lives and property across Nigeria.
