Chime Canvasses Synergy On Disaster Mgt

The Enugu State Governor, Barrister Sullivan Chime, has called for synergy among all stakeholders and development partners in efficient and effective disaster management in the state.

He made the call through the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to State Government, Mr. Chidi Ezema on the occasion of a one-day Stakeholder’s Forum organised by the State Emergency Management Agency in collaboration with UNICEF at the Blue Island Hotels, Enugu,

Governor Chime regreted that the number and gravity of disasters are on the increase not only in Enugu State but globally with grave consequence for survival, dignity and livelihood of individuals which are inimical to sustainable development.

According to him, irrespective of the nature or class of the disaster, the general objectives of his administration are to coordinate and mobilise the resources of government and Non-Governmental Agencies to minimise damage to the environment and infrastructure.

The State Chief Executive enumerated other objectives of government to include saving of lives and property, prevent escalations of disaster incident and restoration of normalcy as soon as possible, among others.

Governor Chime charged participants to take advantage of the forum to look into international/local best practices to build a culture of safety and resilience and reduce the underlying risk factors and strengthen disaster preparedness for effective response at all levels.

Also speaking, the Zonal Coordinator, NEMA South East, Dr Abdullah Bandele Onimode noted that disaster should be seen as everybody’s problem.

He noted that the traditional rulers and local government

authorities are very significant in disaster management, and outlined some certain things expected of all and sundry to prevent disasters to include planting of trees, reducing the rate of cutting the trees and replacement of cut ones to ensure sustainable environment.

According to him, “If we do not have sustainable environment, we have failed to leave anything for posterity”.

Earlier in an address, State Executive Secretary (SEMA) in Enugu State Mr. Joe Offor disclosed that disaster does not happen in one area or direction hence the need to coordinate its management.

Mr. Offor stated that the aim of the forum was for participants to fashion out ways of interventions should disaster occur and commended the state government for its assistance to SEMA since the inception of the agency in the state.

In a goodwill message, the Secretary Nigerian Red Cross, Enugu State Branch, Mr. Tony Udegbu said that Enugu State is a Coal Mining area and has a potential for disaster and called on all Chairmen of Local Government Councils in the State to join hands with SEMA in disaster management.