NEMA's Heroic Efforts in Maiduguri: Over 400 Rescued as Relief Operations Intensify
By: Zagazola Makama
It's been a week of dedication, courage and efficiency from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) as the relief agency remains in the forefront of critical relief operations in flood-stricken Maiduguri. With search and rescue missions in full swing, the agency has successfully evacuated over 400 individuals, offering a lifeline to those most affected by the disaster.
“Our Emergency Response Team (ERT) has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of every individual caught in this crisis,” Sirajo Garba, NEMA's zonal coordinator for Northeast, told Zagazola.
“The operation is ongoing, and our teams are working around the clock to provide aid and support.”
Mr. Garba said NEMA's Medical Intervention and Care Unit (MICU) has reached out to 171 individuals in various camps, delivering essential first aid and medical treatment.
“Providing immediate medical care is crucial,” he said. “Our medical teams are fully equipped to handle the urgent needs of those affected.”
Zagazola can report that the crisis has highlighted severe water shortages, prompting NEMA to deploy its water tanker to supply potable water continuously to Fannami Gubio Camp. Moreover, water purification trucks have been dispatched to areas with acute shortages, aiming to treat and recycle floodwaters.
“Access to clean water is a fundamental need, and we are committed to ensuring that all camps have a reliable supply,” the agency emphasized.
NEMA's Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team has been instrumental in coordinating a comprehensive response strategy. The team recently accompanied a high-level United Nations delegation to assess conditions in Yerwa and other established camps.
“Our collaboration with global partners like the UN and MSF is vital to enhance our response capabilities,“remarked the Zonal Coordinator .
“Plans are underway to establish a temporary health facility in Modu Fannami Camp, ensuring we can provide ongoing medical support.”
Addressing additional challenges, Mr Garba said NEMA has identified a shortage of cooking materials and is working with Civil Society Organizations to distribute extra cooking pots and utensils. He further disclosed that the M&E team has also engaged with the General Manager of BOSEPA to deploy sanitation teams to underserved camps, ensuring comprehensive coverage and support.
Furthermore, the M&E team has been proactive in newly established camps like Bulabulin Ngarnam and Zajeri, where government assistance is currently lacking. “We are dedicated to deploying staff to these areas to set up Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) structures,” the ZC explained.
In Fannami Gubio Camp, the M&E team has already delivered basic medical supplies to the on-site medical team, pending the establishment of a fully operational camp clinic. These efforts underline NEMA's commitment to addressing both immediate and long-term needs of displaced populations.
“Our mission is clear: to rebuild and restore hope for those impacted by this disaster. The resilience and strength of the affected communities inspire us every day,” Mr Garba said.
