The Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) is collaborating with the deputy chairpersons of the state’s 23 local government areas to bolster flood prevention and emergency response efforts ahead of the rainy season.
Dr. Usman Mazadu, KADSEMA’s Executive Secretary, spoke at a strategic meeting held on Tuesday in Kaduna with the LG deputy chairpersons and the state’s Directors of Education and Social Development (ESD). He explained that the gathering aimed to enhance the capacity of Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) and foster community-led disaster preparedness, reflecting Governor Uba Sani’s policy priorities.
“The meeting was convened in response to early warning forecasts and the need for coordinated local action. This administration is committed to reducing disaster risks before they occur. We are not just reacting to emergencies; we are building systems that anticipate and prevent them,” Mazadu said.
He emphasized that true success in disaster management relies on local ownership. “We are equipping you with tools and strategies, but implementation must be community driven. The impact of government must be visible at the grassroots,” he told the attendees.
Dr. Mazadu also reaffirmed the state’s dedication to investing in early warning systems, strengthening local emergency structures, and running continuous public-awareness campaigns to protect lives and livelihoods.
Kabiru Sambo, Deputy Chairman of Igabi Local Government Area and Chairperson of the Deputy Chairpersons’ Forum, praised the initiative as both timely and strategic. “We fully support the governor’s vision of a disaster-resilient state. As deputy chairpersons, we are committed to ensuring that LEMCs function effectively in every LGA,” he stated.
Ahmed Khalid, Chairman of the ESD Directors’ Forum, noted that this was the first time his forum had been actively involved in emergency planning. “For the first time, we are not just observers. We are being equipped and included in decision-making processes,” he remarked.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), participants ended the meeting by pledging to raise disaster-risk awareness, improve emergency coordination, and collaborate closely with KADSEMA to ensure comprehensive disaster preparedness across the state.
