FEMD Reports 165 Emergency Interventions in 2024

December 23, 2024 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) retrieved about 3,500 lives from various emergencies in 2024, which shows a great and remarkable milestone in its disaster response operations.

The acting director-general of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, during a press briefing, stated the department’s milestones, challenges, and plans for 2025.

He emphasised that FEMD had successfully managed incidents such as flooding, building collapses, fire outbreaks, road crashes, and even attempted suicides.

Mohammed attributed the department’s successes to proactive measures, including collaborations with local divers, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders, which assist in managing the impact of disasters.

FEMD also introduced new initiatives in their operations that are targeted at strengthening disaster preparedness and response capabilities, ensuring the safety and well-being of the communities in the Federal Capital Territory.

He said, “Emergency management must be a bottom-up approach involving traditional rulers and local government authorities. This synergy has yielded positive results.

Mohammed voiced: “In 2024, the department conducted over 165 emergency responses, rescuing 75 individuals from floods and 105 from collapsed buildings.

“While FEMD successfully saved 1,230 persons from fire incidents without fatalities, four lives were lost to building collapses and floods. Additionally, FEMD provided relief materials to affected communities, including displaced persons and households impacted by disasters.

“FEMD also collaborated with stakeholders such as the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET), the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), and traditional rulers to mitigate the impact of disasters. Early warning systems and community-based disaster management approaches proved vital in addressing flood risks, which affected several areas in the FCT, including Angwan Hakimi in Orozo, Dutse Makaranta, and Nyanya.

He continued, “Notably, the department saved 105 individuals from building collapses, although four fatalities were recorded in incidents at Guzape, Garki 2, Kubwa, and Sabon Lugbe. FEMD also responded to earth tremors in Mpape, Katampe, and Maitama Extension, which left over 2,000 residents traumatised.

“In its drive to improve preparedness, FEMD engaged schools through sensitisation campaigns, established disaster management clubs, and conducted anti-terrorism simulation exercises. The department also partnered with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NARSDA) to enhance disaster response through geospatial data sharing and early warning systems.

“FEMD distributed relief materials to disaster victims, including food items to 200 persons living with disabilities and Ramadan packages to internally displaced persons in Kabusa and Bwari. Additionally, the department donated hospital equipment to Kuje District Hospital and school beds to Government Secondary School, Kuje.”

Further, Engr. Mohammed disclosed plans to leverage technology for disaster management, including satellite-based risk assessment and real-time data monitoring to improve response time.

“Our goal is to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in disaster response. We will deepen collaboration with traditional institutions and area councils while expanding campaigns on traditional and social media,” he added.

He said in spite of the challenges FEMD might be facing, such as obsolete equipment, inadequate funding, and limited office space, the organisation will continue to render selfless services.

Mohammed promised the residents of FCT continuous protection of lives and properties as he also called on stakeholders, including the media, for support.

He concluded by saying, “Disaster management is a collective responsibility, and with your partnership, we will make the FCT safer for all.”