In a move aimed at boosting disaster and risk management,the Federal Government has unveiled the 2024 Hazard Risk Countrywide Analysis
The launch which held in Abuja today was headed by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
At the event ,he urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address the country’s vulnerabilities to climate change and other hazards.
“This launch is a testament to our resolve as a nation to confront the uncertainties of our ecological realities with informed strategies.
“We are committed to protecting citizens from ecological risks while building the infrastructure and mechanisms necessary for disaster prevention and response,” Shettima stated.
Developed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) with technical support from UNICEF, the report provides an in-depth analysis of Nigeria’s susceptibility to hazards such as floods, droughts, and public health emergencies.
It aims to empower policymakers, emergency responders, and community leaders with critical data to enhance early warning systems and strengthen risk mitigation strategies.
The Vice President emphasised the importance of shifting from reactive to proactive disaster management approaches, stressing
“This analysis is not just a tool—it is a lifeline for building community resilience,”
He further noted that recent challenges such as devastating floods and cholera outbreaks that have displaced thousands and claimed lives.
He commended NEMA and its partners for their efforts, describing the report as a “landmark achievement” that reflects the administration’s commitment to proactive governance.
He also expressed gratitude to international organizations, including UN agencies, for their support in enhancing Nigeria’s disaster preparedness.
Speaking at the occasion,Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, praised the report as timely and pledged legislative support for disaster management.
He outlined three key focus areas which include:: strengthening early warning systems, securing funding for risk mitigation, and empowering communities to build grassroots capacity for disaster prevention.
Similarly, Senate Committee Chairman on Special Duties, Kaka Lawan, described the launch as a “giant stride,” reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to supporting NEMA’s mandate and other disaster management initiatives.
In the same vein, NEMA’s Director General, Zubaida Umar, lauded the launch as a significant milestone, underscoring the report’s role in guiding the development and review of Nigeria’s disaster preparedness plans.
“Preparedness is the cornerstone of disaster management and a shared responsibility,” she noted.
UNICEF’s Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, highlighted the report’s alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She emphasised its focus on vulnerable groups and its utility in mapping occurrences such as flash floods, conflicts, and disease outbreaks across Nigeria.
The 2024 Hazard Risk Analysis is expected to serve as a foundation for robust policies and actions aimed at building a safer, more resilient nation.
