Federal Government agencies have emphasized that collaboration and synergy among stakeholders remain critical to improving Nigeria’s emergency response system.
This was the central message at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, where participants discussed strategies to build a stronger and more coordinated framework for disaster management and emergency interventions.
Key Stakeholders in Attendance
The meeting brought together representatives from:
- National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
- Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs
- Nigerian Air Force (NAF)
- Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)
- Federal Fire Service (FFS)
- National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Scheme (NEMSAS)
The event was convened by the Frederick Emergency Response Support Initiative (FREER), a non-profit organization working to enhance national emergency preparedness in situations such as road crashes, fire incidents, flooding, and other disasters.
“Synergy is Key” – FREER
Speaking at the meeting, McFredericks Akor Edache, Country Director of FREER, highlighted the need for collaboration, stressing that no single agency can effectively manage disasters alone.
He explained that FREER’s mission is to support and strengthen existing emergency frameworks rather than replace them.
“Synergy among agencies is key to saving more lives during emergencies. Our goal is to work with stakeholders, not compete with them,” Edache said.
Commitments Made
In response, both the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Federal Fire Service (FFS) pledged to provide training for FREER staff, ensuring they are adequately prepared to respond to emergency situations.
Stakeholders agreed that continued collaboration and capacity-building would be vital to achieving a robust national emergency response system.
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