The Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) on Wednesday, commenced review of the state’s contingency plan on reduction of vulnerability to hazards.
Speaking during the session, Mr Abubakar Hassan, Executive Secretary of the agency, said the review was necessary to capture emerging trends of identified hazards drawn from the 255 wards of the state, which would serve as information.
According to him, relevant stakeholders will use the contingency plan as early warning signs for organizational preparedness, using the roles that have been assigned to them in the plan.
Hassan said the impact of disasters on lives, property and environment, depended on the state’s level of preparedness, which also relied on efficient early warning signals.
“We have created and trained a network of 1,800 persons, with 6 persons each from the 255 wards to identify early warning signs, as well as identify hazards so they can report urgently for immediate actions,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr Bamidele Fagbite, Senior Programme Coordinator, Christian Aid, suggested that the contingency document should be further interpreted in a language that would be understood by all.
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He expressed optimism that the workshop would proffer recommendations that would cushion the anticipated effects of the hazards.
Also speaking, Mr Imam Garki, North West Coordinator, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) commended SEMA for coordinating the programme with full participation of all stakeholders.
He said the contingency plan is a home grown document that would guide participants in managing emergencies, reducing risks, and mitigating impact.
Garki called on all participants to contribute to the development of the document as it would be a guiding principle for response and interventions. (NAN) {www.nannews.ng)
