The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has commenced a refresher training to strengthen the capacity of emergency responders to conduct urban search and rescue operations during floods.
The Head of Operations, NEMA Kaduna Operations Office, Halima Suleiman, said this on Wednesday, September 30, in Kaduna while opening a refresher course on Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) for flooding. She said lessons from flood operations in 2022, 2024 and 2025 had exposed new challenges requiring updated skills, modern techniques and stronger coordination.
Suleiman said urban flood rescue involved navigating submerged homes, collapsed structures, electrical hazards and panicked communities, stressing that responders must prioritise their safety during operations. She urged NEMA, State Emergency Management Agencies and other first responders to close operational gaps and strengthen collaboration ahead of possible flooding predicted by relevant authorities.
She also advised residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, heed early warnings and comply with safety advisories, noting that flooding could occur due to heavy rainfall, rising water levels or water releases.
Ahan Theophilus, Higher Technical Officer, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Kaduna Area Office, said the training would improve community preparedness and safety around waterways. He stressed the importance of proper use of life jackets, noting that having one was not enough without knowing how to wear it correctly.
Participants included officials of the Kaduna State Fire and Public Safety Service, Federal Fire Service, National Orientation Agency, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigerian Red Cross Society and media practitioners.
Leave a comment