By Stella Odueme
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the World Bank Group (WBG) have reviewed the emergency preparedness and response capacity of Kogi State, with a focus on identifying institutional gaps and strengthening disaster management operations.
The exercise was conducted by NEMA’s Abuja Operations Office as part of efforts to improve emergency response systems, enhance coordination among stakeholders and build resilience against disasters across the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Agency said the assessment followed an Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPR&R) workshop held earlier in the year.
The review focused on assessing Kogi State’s Ready-to-Respond status, evaluating existing institutional capacities and identifying areas requiring additional support and intervention.
Speaking at the opening of the assessment, the Head of NEMA Abuja Operations Office, Pharm. Zakari Abubakar, who represented the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to supporting states in strengthening their emergency management structures.
Abubakar stressed the need for sustained collaboration among relevant stakeholders, noting that proactive preparedness, continuous capacity development and effective coordination were critical to minimising the impact of disasters on communities.
The assessment brought together representatives of NEMA, the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kogi State Fire Service, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA), Kogi State Government, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
Participants examined existing emergency response mechanisms, reviewed institutional capabilities and identified areas for improvement to enhance operational effectiveness during emergencies.
The collaboration between NEMA and the World Bank Group reflects a joint commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness, improving emergency coordination and promoting evidence-based planning for safer and more resilient communities across Nigeria.