Emergency stakeholders in Lagos on Monday underscored the role of education and youths in disaster risk reduction in the state.
The stakeholders made this known at a rally to mark the 2024 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) in Lagos.
The Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, said that education could play a transformative role in safeguarding and empowering youths to secure a disaster-free future.
Umar was represented by Mr Azeez Afunku, Chief Relief and Rehabilitation Officer, NEMA Territorial Office, Lagos.
Umar noted that the theme of the 2024 IDDRR is: “The Role of Education in Protecting and Empowering Youth for a Disaster-Free Future.”
She said that the theme emphasised the critical need to equip young people with the knowledge and skills required to prevent, manage, and mitigate disaster risks.
She said that in spite of the rising global concerns over climate change and its impact, NEMA remain committed to leveraging education as a key tool for fostering disaster resilience.
According to her, recent floods across Nigeria have underlined the importance of comprehensive disaster preparedness, especially among the nation’s youths.
“Young people are not only the most vulnerable to the impacts of disasters, but they are also the most powerful agents of change.
“Education is central to empowering our youth to build a safer, more resilient future.
“By equipping them with the right tools and knowledge, we can help them shape strategies that will reduce risks and enhance disaster preparedness, Umar said.
She said that as part of the 2024 observance, NEMA would collaborate with schools, universities, and youth organisations to conduct workshops, seminars, and community engagements.
She explained that the programmes would focus on building awareness of disaster risk reduction, climate action, and the role of innovation and technology in safeguarding communities.
“By fostering dialogue and education, NEMA aims to inspire young people to take active roles in disaster prevention and response.
“NEMA also calls on government agencies, educational institutions, civil society, and the private sector to strengthen partnerships that promote education. as a means of empowering youths for a disaster-resilient Nigeria.
“Through education, NEMA believes young people will not only understand the challenges posed by climate change but will also be equipped to take informed, proactive steps towards securing a safer future for all,” Umar said.
She said that the 2024 IDDRR observance would focus more on grassroots community engagement, recognizing the importance of direct interaction and hands-on learning in disaster preparedness.
She added that by prioritising educational initiatives, NEMA reaffirms its commitment to building a knowledgeable and empowered generation that can lead the nation towards a disaster-free future.
Also Speaking, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), called on all countries to work with their education sector to build a disaster free future.
Oke-Osanyintolu was represented by the Director of Operations, and Maintenance, LASEMA, Mr Olatunde Akinsanya.
Oke-Osanyintolu said that the Lagos State Government through LASEMA, had been collaborating with the education sector to reduce the disaster risks of school-aged children.
He said that the 2024 theme of IDDRR is apt as the agency honour the resilience of communities affected by disasters.
“We also recognize the tireless efforts of emergency responders and humanitarian workers with emphasis on the need for inclusive, proactive disaster risk reduction strategies.
“Let’s work together to build a safer, more resilient world,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.
He expressed gratitude to the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration for his commitment to disaster management and risk reduction in the state.
NAN reports that other stakeholders present at the rally included the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Red Cross Society of Nigeria and members of the Youth Parliament and the Nigeria Police.
