NEMA Advocates for Disaster Risk Reduction and Waste Management in Niger

NEMA in Niger is conducting a sensitization campaign on disaster risk reduction and waste disposal. Led by Hussaini Isah, the initiative aims to mitigate risks linked to improper waste management, particularly in light of flood predictions for 2025. The campaign engages local communities and calls on the government to enhance waste management efforts.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Niger is actively conducting a sensitization campaign aimed at educating communities about disaster risk reduction and proper waste disposal techniques. Hussaini Isah, who heads NEMA’s Minna Operations Office, initiated the campaign at Anguwan Daji community in Minna, collaborating with the NYSC-NEMA Emergency Management Vanguard, NISEPA, NSEMA, and Ajnu Venture.

Isah emphasized the urgency of this campaign in light of the 2025 flood predictions issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Nigerian Hydrological Service Agency. He highlighted the necessity for effective disaster response preparedness and mitigation measures, insisting on prompt response actions when disasters occur. The campaign is set to extend further into the Minna metropolis and Kwara State.

In his remarks, Isah pointed out that improper waste disposal is a significant global concern, and Nigeria is not exempt. He observed that litter in urban areas, such as plastic sachets and bottles, contributes to drainage blockage, increasing flood risks. He urged the Niger state government to consider establishing recycling plants for more effective waste management.

Ahmed Abubakar, President of NEMA’s EMV, stated that the initiative forms part of their services aimed at addressing community needs. He noted that indiscriminate refuse disposal poses health risks and could exacerbate flooding, particularly affecting children in the community.

Alhaji Nasir Tanko, the Community Head of Anguwan Daji, stressed the need for identifying alternative waste disposal sites to help mitigate the issue of dumping in waterways. He advised that public awareness campaigns should follow waste site provisions to inform the community about the adverse effects of improper disposal.

Zuwaira Hassan, a resident, lamented the loss of previous waste collection services and containers, advocating for the government to intervene urgently as unmanaged waste poses significant health risks to the community.

In conclusion, the National Emergency Management Agency’s initiative serves as a proactive measure to address the critical issues surrounding waste disposal and disaster preparedness in Niger. Through community engagement, emphasis on preventive strategies, and calls for governmental actions, NEMA aims to minimize the risks associated with potential flooding in the future.

Original Source: nannews.ng