NEMA Clarifies Critical Roles of States and Local Governments in Disaster Response Framework

In a nation frequently challenged by natural and human-induced disasters, the importance of a well-coordinated emergency response cannot be overstated. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has once again emphasized the necessity for seamless collaboration across all tiers of government to enhance Nigeria’s disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.

Call for Unified Action in Disaster Management

Eric Ebhodaghe, the South-South Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, recently addressed concerns regarding the operational framework of disaster management in Nigeria. In an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt, Ebhodaghe highlighted the urgent need for state and local governments to strengthen their emergency management structures.

“Disaster response should ideally begin at the grassroots level,” Ebhodaghe explained. “Local Government Emergency Management Committees (LGEMCs) must act as first responders, with State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) providing support at the regional level. NEMA steps in when state capacities are overwhelmed.”

The Three-Tier Disaster Response System

According to Ebhodaghe, Nigeria’s disaster management model is designed as a three-tier system:

Local Government Level: LGEMCs are responsible for initial assessment, mobilization, and immediate response within communities.

State Level: SEMAs replicate NEMA’s functions within their jurisdictions, ensuring that mitigation measures are implemented effectively.

Federal Level: NEMA serves as the overarching coordinating body, providing guidance, resources, and intervention when necessary.

Ebhodaghe expressed concern that this structure is not being fully utilized. “Some states neither have properly established SEMAs nor understand the modus operandi of disaster management. They rely solely on NEMA, which is not sustainable,” he noted.

Challenges in Implementation

One of the significant hurdles in achieving an efficient disaster response mechanism is the lack of legal backing and funding for SEMAs and LGEMCs in many states. Without proper legislation and budgetary allocation, these agencies cannot function independently or effectively.

Ebhodaghe stressed that disaster management is inherently multi-sectoral. “It involves health, infrastructure, security, and environmental sectors, among others. No single agency can handle it alone. States must empower their SEMAs to take ownership of disaster preparedness and response.”

Moving Forward: Recommendations and Solutions

To bridge existing gaps, Ebhodaghe called on state governments to:

Establish functional SEMAs with clear legal mandates.

Allocate adequate funding and resources for emergency preparedness.

Train and equip local volunteers and emergency workers.

Foster inter-agency collaboration and information sharing.

“Disaster management is a shared responsibility,” Ebhodaghe reiterated. “When states neglect their roles, the entire system becomes overburdened. We must work together to build a resilient nation.”

Why This Matters Now

With increasing climate-related incidents such as floods, erosion, and extreme weather events, along with human-induced emergencies like conflicts and industrial accidents, the need for a robust disaster response framework is more critical than ever.

Effective coordination can mean the difference between life and death, between swift recovery and prolonged suffering. By clarifying roles and strengthening local capacities, Nigeria can significantly reduce the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.

Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility

The message from NEMA is clear: disaster management is not solely a federal responsibility. States and local governments must step up, institutionalize their emergency agencies, and ensure they are functional, funded, and forward-thinking.

As Ebhodaghe rightly pointed out, it’s time for all tiers of government to align their efforts and prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens. Only through unity and coordination can Nigeria build a disaster-resilient future.