Flood, Fire Outbreak Kill 12, Affect 1,793 in Abuja-Official

The Acting Director of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Mohammed Sabo, has expressed deep concern and empathy for the communities affected by natural disasters like flood and fire outbreaks, which occurred during the year 2023 and impacted 1,793 people, resulting in the loss of 12 lives.

During an end-of-year briefing on Thursday, Mr Sabo emphasized the agency’s quick response time and unwavering commitment, which resulted in the rescue of 1,373 people from floods, 247 from fires, and 173 from building collapses.

Mr Sabo also highlighted the heroism and resilience demonstrated by the affected communities, which is a testament to the agency’s dedication to saving lives. 

He mentioned FEMA’s outreach to 400 vulnerable residents in the FCT, providing them with the necessary support and aid during difficult times.

Mr Sabo narrated an incident where the agency provided critical assistance to 200 displaced households and salvaged 25 ravaged farmlands in the Yangoji-Shafi community, Kwali Area Council, which had been severely impacted by torrential rainfall. 

He also spoke about FEMA’s collaboration with the Turkish Foundation, UFUK dialogue, wherein the agency distributed essential food items to 200 vulnerable households, bringing relief to people during the Eid el Kabir festival.

Mr Sabo unveiled FEMA’s ambitious plans to strengthen its capabilities in the future. The agency aims to collaborate with the National Defence College (NDC) to equip volunteers with essential rescue skills and to organize a blood drive to support the military.

He affirmed FEMA’s commitment to proactive measures, announcing intensified campaigns to educate residents on safety protocols during both rainy and dry seasons. Operation Eagle Eye, a hallmark initiative, will continue to empower communities with knowledge and strategies to mitigate the impact of natural disasters until 2024.

“We have had useful communications with the NDC to this effect and we are awaiting a final response from them. The training is to equip our volunteers with basic and professional rescue skills. We also intend to organize a blood drive for the military, using our volunteers. The blood drive aims to show support and solidarity for their efforts at keeping the nation safe.”

“We are intensifying our sensitization campaign on safety measures during the rainy and dry seasons. Our rainy season campaign will focus on sensitizing residents on what to do before the rains, during the rains, and after the rains. The spillover of this year’s Operation Eagle Eye and dry season campaigns will be carried out in 2024,” Sabo added.

The FCT’s Emergency Management Agency remains committed to strengthening resilience and preparedness for the future and will continue to provide compassionate support to those affected by natural disasters.