NEMA adopts new strategies to improve disaster preparedness

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Nigeria has introduced reforms to improve its ability to respond to disasters.

Under the leadership of Director General Zubaida Umar, the agency has prioritised institutional capacity, technology integration, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

According to the Press Unit of NEMA Headquarters Abuja, these initiatives aim to make disaster management more efficient and proactive.

NEMA has focused on strengthening early warning systems, digital coordination platforms, and community engagement.

The agency’s leadership has also emphasised inclusive disaster response strategies that consider the needs of vulnerable populations.

Technology-driven reforms improve disaster response

One of the key initiatives introduced under Umar’s leadership is the modernisation of early warning systems.

NEMA has incorporated satellite technology and predictive analytics to improve flood risk mapping and real-time disaster monitoring.

The agency has also launched a centralised disaster response dashboard to enhance inter-agency coordination.

This platform allows emergency teams to track incidents, allocate resources, and make data-driven decisions.

These technology-driven reforms aim to ensure that emergency response efforts are more effective and that communities receive timely alerts and assistance.

Community engagement strengthens disaster preparedness

NEMA has expanded grassroots outreach programmes to promote disaster awareness and preparedness at the community level.

The agency has worked with local leaders, schools, and civil society organisations to educate the public on emergency response measures.

Special attention has been given to ensuring disaster management strategies are inclusive.

Programmes have been tailored to address the needs of women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

Umar has advocated for gender-sensitive policies, recognising the different challenges that women and children face during emergencies.

Strategic reforms shift focus to proactive resilience-building

NEMA has moved from a reactive crisis management approach to proactive disaster mitigation and resilience-building.

The agency has implemented policies aimed at reducing risks before disasters occur.

The reforms include improved coordination among federal, state, and local agencies to streamline response efforts.

By integrating data-driven decision-making and enhancing community preparedness, NEMA seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s overall disaster resilience.

According to the Press Unit of NEMA Headquarters Abuja, these reforms are designed to make disaster management more efficient and ensure communities can better withstand emergencies.

NEMA enhances disaster response in Nigeria through reforms: Summary

Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has introduced reforms aimed at improving disaster preparedness and response.

The agency, led by Director General Zubaida Umar, has focused on strengthening institutional capacity, integrating technology, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration.

NEMA has modernised early warning systems with satellite technology and predictive analytics, improving flood risk mapping and real-time disaster monitoring.

The agency has also launched a centralised disaster response dashboard to enhance coordination and resource allocation.

Community engagement initiatives have been expanded to raise disaster awareness, particularly among marginalised groups.

Gender-sensitive policies have been promoted to address the specific needs of women and children during emergencies.

These reforms reflect a shift from reactive crisis management to proactive resilience-building.

The agency aims to enhance disaster preparedness, improve coordination across government levels, and support communities in reducing disaster risks.