By Edeniyere Abraham Osose
The Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA), led by its Executive Secretary, Hon. Jerry Idahosa, has solicited the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on collaboration in disaster response and management in the State.
Hon. Idahosa sought the synergy when his Team paid a courtesy visit on the Head of Operations of NEMA, Benin City office, Mr. Ojuederie Kenoma. During the visit, he emphasized the importance of partnership between state and federal emergency response agencies to enhance disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response efforts.
He highlighted EdoSEMA’s commitment to improving disaster management frameworks and sought NEMA’s support in capacity building, technical assistance, and resource mobilization. He expressed gratitude to NEMA for its continued support and reaffirmed EdoSEMA’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Agency to ensure the safety and resilience of communities in Edo State.
The Head of Operations at NEMA, Mr. Kenoma commended EdoSEMA’s proactive approach to disaster management. He maintained that there is the need for collaboration among critical stakeholders to proactively plan for disaster risks, particularly as the rain season approaches and acknowledged EdoSEMA as a key stakeholder at the forefront of emergency response in Edo State.
The meeting explored strategies to improve early warning systems, community sensitization, and post-disaster recovery in Edo State. Both agencies agreed on the need for periodic training and joint simulation exercises to enhance the effectiveness of their response teams.
In his remarks, Wilson Ekhomojiazin from the Nigeria Red Cross, applauded the efforts of both EdoSEMA and NEMA in disaster management. He urged both agencies to respond promptly whenever the Red Cross seeks assistance and supported that collaboration is essential for effective humanitarian response.
The visit marks a significant step toward strengthening inter-agency cooperation for more efficient disaster management and humanitarian response efforts in Edo State.
