By Harriet Tornguvan
General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), welcomed Hajia Zubaida Umar, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on 29 July, 2024,
This visit underscored the collaborative efforts between the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and NEMA.
Upon receiving the DG and her delegation, General Musa extended his congratulations on her recent appointment.
He emphasized the continued commitment of the AFN to support NEMA’s initiatives, particularly in disaster preparedness and response.
General Musa highlighted the essential role NEMA plays in improving the lives of Nigerians through its comprehensive emergency management strategies.
Hajia Zubaida Umar expressed her appreciation for the AFN’s unwavering support. She noted the critical importance of collaboration in fulfilling NEMA’s mandate to manage disasters and build resilience amidst armed conflicts and climate change-related challenges.
Hajiya Zubaida acknowledged the AFN’s significant contributions through its Disaster Response Units (DRUs), which are instrumental in saving lives and restoring normalcy during emergencies.
The DG praised the AFN for its provision of security, the airlifting of relief materials, and evacuation efforts, citing these as exemplary forms of military assistance to civil authorities.
She mentioned that NEMA continually enhances the capacity of AFN personnel in disaster management and organizes joint simulation exercises to prepare for various emergency scenarios.
Furthermore, she noted the ongoing support NEMA provides to the military, including operational equipment and resources.
Hajia Zubaida also briefed General Musa on NEMA’s flood disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts as the rainy season approaches. She urged the CDS to direct the Military DRUs to intensify their preparedness to mitigate the impact of potential floods.
This visit highlighted the vital partnership between NEMA and the AFN, showcasing their collective efforts to enhance national resilience and disaster management capabilities.
