CCC, NEMA Partner for Improved Emergency Management
The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have agreed to boost their partnership collaboration.
The agreement was reached when a delegation of CCC led by its Chairman, Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd), visited NEMA’s Director General, Zubaida Umar.
Speaking, General Olukolade pointed out that while the federal government is actively providing resources and palliative measures for vulnerable populations, the distribution processes at the state level often lack transparency and efficiency.
He stated, “Examining the ongoing flooding disasters affecting several states, it is evident that NEMA must adopt collaborative and centralized control mechanisms to enhance emergency management. This includes improving early warning systems and search and rescue operations.”
General Olukolade further underscored that effective Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies are essential for building resilient communities, mitigating disaster impacts, and promoting sustainable development.
He highlighted significant gaps in these strategies at the state and local government levels, noting, “Even with substantial federal assistance and relief interventions, many states are struggling with transparent processes to ensure the judicious and timely distribution of resources to those in need.”
As a former Defence spokesperson, Olukolade also addressed the importance of strategic communication and public sensitization in times of crisis.
He articulated that effective early warning systems and comprehensive awareness campaigns could alleviate the severe consequences of disasters, such as flooding. To mitigate disaster impacts and reduce humanitarian dependency, he advocated for enhanced public awareness campaigns, greater community engagement, and participation.
“Information management and communication are pivotal in crisis situations, as they help prevent organizational overwhelm,” Olukolade added.
In response, NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, acknowledged the valuable insights provided by the CCC delegation and expressed her commitment to fostering partnerships for enhanced collaboration.
She highlighted NEMA’s multifaceted approach, which extends beyond merely delivering palliatives to creating effective DRR strategies aimed at strengthening community resilience and institutional coordination.
Umar detailed NEMA’s engagement in search and rescue operations across various states, emphasizing the agency’s focus on emergency preparedness, risk assessment, and the implementation of advanced early warning systems.
She commended the interagency collaboration through coordination forums, ensuring that all stakeholders remain aligned, particularly in response to flood crises. “The successes we’ve experienced in rapid response and rescue efforts can be attributed to ongoing stakeholder engagement and timely interventions,” she remarked, while also acknowledging the vital support from military personnel.
Additionally, she emphasized the need for improved public communication regarding these relief efforts.
The discussion also touched on funding challenges and the potential benefits of decentralization to expedite relief efforts without compromising NEMA’s capabilities. Umar expressed enthusiasm for partnering with the CCC to enhance capacity-building and crisis management initiatives.
The meeting concluded with mutual appreciation and a reinforced commitment to collaborate for improved emergency management outcomes. Both leaders expressed optimism about working together to enhance disaster resilience and response capabilities at all levels.
