By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, in a proactive drive to save lives during the 2025 flood season has began emergency preparedness with the distribution of Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) ambulances to some of its Operation Offices across the country.
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, approved the deployment following an assessment that revealed critical equipment gaps in some field offices. According to the agency, the move aligns with its ongoing efforts to optimize resource allocation and improve disaster response capabilities at the sub-national level.
Umar, said the deployment is a strategic step towards strengthening the operational capacity of NEMA zonal Directorate and Operation Offices.
She said, “With the increasing risk of climate-induced disasters, particularly flooding, it is imperative that our teams are well-equipped to provide immediate and effective life-saving interventions.”
“The MICU ambulances are equipped with modern emergency medical tools, including oxygen supply systems, patient monitoring devices, suction kits, and other essential life support equipment. These features make them suitable for stabilizing patients during transit to medical facilities, thereby significantly improving survival chances in emergencies.”
The agency confirmed that the ambulances have been dispatched to NEMA’s operational offices in Kaduna, Owerri, and Uyo, based on vulnerability assessments and logistical considerations.
This initiative reflects NEMA’s broader commitment to building a robust disaster preparedness and response framework nationwide. With current climatic forecasts indicating a high probability of severe flooding in several states, the agency has intensified its efforts to upgrade infrastructure, enhance inter-agency coordination, and engage communities in risk awareness programs.
Furthermore, with the deployment of the advanced rescue equipment, the agency stated that it continues to conduct flood simulation exercises, community sensitization campaigns, and stakeholder coordination meetings as part of its comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategy.
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