FG launches hazard risk analysis for disaster preparedness, mitigation
By Kunle Sanni
The Federal Government has launched the 2024 Hazard Risk Countrywide Analysis to strengthen disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch event on Thursday in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s vulnerability to disasters and climate change. He called for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to build a safer and more resilient nation.
“This launch is a testament to our resolve as a nation to confront the uncertainties of our ecological realities with informed strategies,” Shettima said.
“We are committed to protecting citizens from ecological risks while building the infrastructure and mechanisms necessary for disaster prevention and response.”
The report, developed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) with technical support from UNICEF, provides an in-depth analysis of Nigeria’s susceptibility to hazards such as floods, droughts, and public health emergencies. It offers critical data to policymakers, emergency responders, and community leaders, enhancing early warning systems and risk mitigation strategies.
Vice President Shettima stressed the importance of understanding risks to enable proactive disaster management. He noted that the document serves as a foundation for identifying and addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
“The nation cannot prepare for risks it does not know,” he stated. “This analysis empowers the government to shift from reactive to proactive strategies in addressing disasters.”
Highlighting recent challenges such as devastating floods and cholera outbreaks that displaced thousands and claimed lives, Shettima underscored the urgency of robust preparedness mechanisms.
“While we may not prevent every disaster, we can significantly reduce their impact by institutionalizing risk assessments and continuously monitoring hazards and vulnerabilities,” he said. “This analysis is not just a tool—it is a lifeline for building community resilience.”
Shettima commended NEMA, development partners, and other stakeholders for their dedication in producing the report, describing it as a landmark achievement. He added that the report should serve as a springboard for policies and actions to make Nigeria more resilient against future risks.
“Protecting lives and property is a collective responsibility, and this launch symbolizes the unity of purpose needed to build a safer Nigeria,” he concluded.
Support from Legislative and International Partners
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described the report’s launch as timely and reaffirmed the House’s commitment to leveraging its findings for impactful legislation. He identified three key areas for legislative support:
- Strengthening early warning systems.
- Funding risk mitigation efforts.
- Supporting community-centered interventions to build grassroots capacity for disaster management.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, Sen. Kaka Shehu Lawan, congratulated NEMA and stakeholders on the successful launch, pledging Senate support to enhance Nigeria’s disaster preparedness and response frameworks.
NEMA Director General, Dr. Zubaida Umar, hailed the report as a milestone in collective efforts to enhance disaster preparedness. She noted that the document would guide the development and review of Nigeria’s preparedness plans, laying a foundation for a safer and more resilient country.
“Preparedness is the cornerstone of disaster management,” Dr. Umar said. “It is a shared responsibility to ensure swift and efficient responses to emergencies when they occur.”
UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, emphasized the report’s significance in mapping occurrences such as flash floods, conflict, and disease outbreaks across the country.
She highlighted its alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in fostering a disaster-resilient nation and safeguarding vulnerable groups.
