365 Days of Enhanced Disaster Management in Nigeria
Disaster management in Nigeria has long been characterized by sluggish responses, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and inadequate preparedness. However, on March 15, 2024, a new era began with the appointment of Hajiya Zubaida Umar as the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). In just one year, she has redefined crisis leadership, transforming NEMA from a reactive institution into a proactive, agile force capable of mitigating disasters before they escalate into full-blown catastrophes.
From the moment she assumed office, Hajiya Zubaida Umar brought a sense of urgency, innovation, and strategic vision to NEMA. Recognizing the complexity of Nigeria’s disaster landscape—ranging from floods and fires to conflicts and mass displacements—she wasted no time in implementing reforms to strengthen preparedness, improve response times, and ensure efficient aid distribution.
A New Era of Preparedness
One of her most significant achievements has been the enhancement of NEMA’s disaster preparedness strategy. Under her leadership, the agency has revamped its early warning systems, particularly in flood-prone areas. By collaborating with the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), she spearheaded an aggressive flood preparedness campaign. This initiative included public sensitization programs, emergency response training, and strategic engagements with state governments. The results were tangible: communities were better prepared, casualties were significantly reduced, and economic losses were minimized.
Leadership in Crisis
True leadership is tested in moments of crisis, and Hajiya Zubaida Umar has consistently risen to the occasion. Over the past year, NEMA has responded to a series of national emergencies with remarkable speed and efficiency. Whether it was the devastating fire outbreaks in major markets, the tragic explosion in Ibadan, or the deadly boat mishaps in northern Nigeria, NEMA was on the ground almost immediately, coordinating relief efforts and providing critical support to affected communities.
Gone are the days when disaster victims had to endure endless waits for assistance. Through a structured and transparent intervention model, Hajiya Zubaida Umar has ensured that relief materials reach affected communities without unnecessary bureaucratic delays. Her ability to mobilize resources, engage development partners, and ensure swift response has significantly restored public trust in NEMA’s operations.
Championing Long-Term Solutions
Beyond immediate crisis response, Hajiya Zubaida Umar has championed long-term solutions to disaster risk reduction. She has been a vocal advocate for the establishment of functional State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), recognizing that disaster response cannot be entirely centralized. Through strategic engagements, she has pushed for better funding, capacity building, and improved equipment for emergency responders at the state level.
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Her leadership has also strengthened humanitarian aid for displaced persons. From IDP camps in the Northeast to flood-affected communities in the South, she has overseen the distribution of essential relief items such as food, clothing, and medical supplies, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. Her collaboration with international organizations, including UN agencies and donor partners, has further bolstered Nigeria’s humanitarian response framework.
Embracing Technology
In a world where technology is revolutionizing disaster management, Hajiya Zubaida Umar has ensured that NEMA is not left behind. Under her leadership, the agency has adopted geospatial mapping, drone surveillance, and digital reporting systems to track disasters in real time and improve response efficiency. This digital transformation has positioned NEMA as a forward-thinking institution, better equipped to handle complex emergency situations with precision.
Grassroots Engagement and Public Sensitization
Perhaps one of her most impactful initiatives has been her focus on grassroots engagement and public sensitization. Recognizing that disaster prevention is as critical as disaster response, she has launched nationwide awareness campaigns to educate citizens on fire safety, flood preparedness, first aid, and emergency response protocols. By empowering communities with knowledge, she is gradually shifting the national mindset from reactive disaster management to proactive disaster prevention.
Overcoming Challenges
Like any leader in charge of crisis management, Hajiya Zubaida Umar has faced significant challenges. Limited funding, logistical constraints, and an overwhelming demand for emergency assistance remain persistent hurdles. However, rather than being deterred, she has tackled these obstacles with strategic planning, inter-agency collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to efficiency.
A Transformational Year
As she marks one year in office, the transformation of NEMA is undeniable. Under her watch, the agency has evolved from a slow-moving bureaucracy into a dynamic, responsive, and transparent institution. Her leadership has not only strengthened Nigeria’s disaster response framework but has also set a new standard for what efficient emergency management should look like.
The Road Ahead
With climate change intensifying natural disasters and humanitarian needs growing across the country, the road ahead remains challenging. Yet, if the past year is any indication, Hajiya Zubaida Umar is more than prepared for the task. The next phase of her leadership will be crucial in consolidating her achievements, fostering greater inter-agency collaboration, and ensuring that Nigeria’s disaster management system remains robust, proactive, and adaptable to emerging challenges.
A Visionary Leader
Indeed, Hajiya Zubaida Umar’s first year at NEMA has been nothing short of transformational. She has shattered old inefficiencies, redefined emergency response, and restored confidence in an institution that millions rely on in their darkest moments. As disasters grow more complex and unpredictable, Nigeria needs more than just a manager—it needs a visionary. And if the past 365 days are any indication, Zubaida Umar is not just leading NEMA; she is shaping the future of disaster management in Nigeria.
Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu, an NYSC serving corps member, writes from the Center for Crisis Communication (CCC) in Abuja.
