Owerri:The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is actively working to address flooding through its Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) programme. This initiative was highlighted during a refresher training session held in Owerri, aimed at equipping staff members and key stakeholders with essential skills.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, NEMA’s Head of Operations for Abia and Imo, Mr. Innocent Nweze, emphasized the significance of the USAR programme in the face of increasingly complex urban environments and the heightened risks of building collapses, landslides, explosions, industrial accidents, and other emergencies.
Nweze explained that the complexities and flooding issues in various communities necessitate well-trained, equipped, and coordinated response teams. USAR operations are particularly challenging and require specialized knowledge, teamwork, and effective communication to save lives and minimize suffering during emergencies.
The programme aims to strengthen the capabilities of emergency responders and improve inter-agency coordination, promoting internationally recognized practices in search and rescue operations. Nweze expressed gratitude to NEMA’s Director-General, Mrs. Umar Zubaida, and partner organizations for their support and urged continued commitment to developing competent and effective USAR teams.
The training event also featured participation from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Fire Service, and the National Inland Waterways Authority, with a major highlight being a simulation exercise on rescuing a drowning person at Otammiri River.