FEMA TO INCREASE AWARENESS EFFORTS FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has expressed its commitment to enhance and sustain awareness campaigns on Disaster Risk Reduction within the Territory, with a particular focus on rural communities to minimize the consequences of disasters.

Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim Sabo, the Acting Director-General of the Agency, affirmed this commitment in an official statement issued to commemorate the 2023 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) in Abuja.

Sabo emphasized the importance of sensitization in enabling those who are vulnerable to disasters and hazards to better anticipate, endure, and recover from such events, with the ultimate goal of preventing new risks.

He noted that the theme for IDDRR 2023, “Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future,” is highly pertinent as it aligns with the 2015-2023 Sendai Framework, an international accord aimed at preventing and diminishing the loss of lives, livelihoods, economies, and critical infrastructure.

Sabo pointed out that disparities in access to essential services such as financial and insurance services leave marginalized populations exposed to the perils of disasters. Furthermore, the impacts of disasters often drive vulnerable individuals deeper into poverty.

The Acting Director-General revealed that FEMA had recently initiated an awareness campaign across the six Area Councils of the FCT. This initiative involved engaging traditional leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, and other community stakeholders in Disaster Risk Reduction efforts.

Sabo stressed that, in the event of disasters, special consideration must be given to the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities. Collaborations with organizations like the Christian Blind Mission and the Survive Fistula Foundation are being pursued to extend the reach of this message to vulnerable community groups.

FEMA plans to intensify its awareness efforts through its volunteers, community leaders, town criers, and emergency response teams. Early warning systems will be instrumental in reducing the severity and frequency of disasters.

Sabo made a heartfelt appeal to residents to heed the Agency’s early warnings and refrain from actions that could harm the environment. He urged residents to use the toll-free emergency number 112 in the event of a disaster.

It’s worth noting that the United Nations General Assembly designated October 13 as the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. This annual event serves as a global reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the reduction of risk.