NEMA Calls for Emergency Preparedness

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has said that disaster were increasing in its frequency and magnitude while scientific evidence showed extreme weather was imminent and therefore called for emergency preparedness and early warnings mechanism across the country. NEMA in a statement by its Head of Media and Public Relations, Sani Datti, hinted that, there was the need for emergency preparedness and early warnings mechanism at local levels, especially as disaster preparedness and mitigation were necessary for the sustainable growth of any society. According to it, "The DG, NEMA, Engr. Mustapha Yunusa Maihaja has commiserated with the state government of Kebbi State and victims over the windstorm disaster which within a few minutes, affected over 869 houses and rendered many homeless." Maihaja while delivering relief assistance to the affected persons in Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State, said, "disasters are increasing in their frequency and magnitude and scientific evidence has shown that as a result of climate change, extreme weather events like flood , windstorm, drought and epidemics have become more frequent and severe." He assured them of the agency’s support to alleviate their suffering, adding that under his watch, victims of disasters would get assistance within 48 hours, adding, "theymayevenoccurinareaswheretheywerepreviouslyunknown,hence, the need for early preparedness and early warning mechanism."