By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) has officially launched the Electronic Emergency Management System (EEMS), tagged Benue E-Emergency Platforms, to enhance rapid response to humanitarian crises across the state.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Deborah Terkimbi Aber, noted that the digital platforms would significantly improve the speed and efficiency of emergency reporting and response.
He stated that Benue State has, over the years, experienced numerous security and humanitarian challenges, adding that the new system aligns with his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“These platforms will greatly enhance government efforts to ensure the safety of lives, which remains the first pillar of my 7-Point Agenda,” the governor said.
“I urge everyone to engage responsibly with the platforms. The goal is to ensure that accurate information reaches the right authorities promptly. Let’s avoid misusing the platforms with irrelevant or misleading posts.”
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of BSEMA, Dr. James Iorpuu, explained that the E-Emergency Platforms allow citizens to report various emergencies, including fire outbreaks, floods, erosion, communal clashes, market incidents, herder attacks, and other forms of violence.
Dr. Iorpuu called on citizens at home and abroad, as well as humanitarian partners, to embrace the system and avoid unofficial or politically motivated platforms that could stir unnecessary tension.
“We now have a smarter, more transparent, and collaborative emergency response mechanism that positions Benue as a pioneer in E-Emergency Management at the sub-national level in Nigeria,” he said.
“BSEMA, in partnership with Benue Digital Infrastructure Company, has introduced drone surveillance to capture real-time emergency images and video, including monitoring activities in IDP camps.”
