Zambian Govt. seeks NEMA expertise, collaboration on disaster Management
NAN-H-99
Management
By Lizzy Okoji
Abuja, May 24, 2017 (NAN) Dr Solomon Jere, Zambia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria has requested the expertise and collaboration of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) with his country in the area of disaster management.
The High Commissioner made the request during a visit to the Director General of NEMA, Mr Mustapha Maihaja on Wednesday in Abuja.
Jere commended the proactive nature of the agency in disaster management and its outstanding performances in the discharge of its mandates.
He said that collaboration between both disaster management organisations would be of immense benefit to both countries.
“Your Agency is well organised and one that we would want to emulate your best practice.
“In Zambia, we also have a department for the management of disasters under the office of the Vice President but I am here to seek a collaboration that would be beneficial to both countries.
“Nigeria has played major roles in support of the struggle for independence of many African countries and she is still being held in high esteem.
“Nigeria is still being looked up to by other countries for support when any need arises and this is one of such as we look to partner with Nigeria in the areas of disaster management,’’ Jere said.
Jere explained that the desire for the collaboration with NEMA had been necessitated by his believe that it is always better to prepare ahead.
He said the Zambian Government would be inviting the Director- General on a high level visit to build on the collaboration
He also added that the High Commission will open a channel of communication with NEMA on disaster management.
In his response, Maihaja said he was elated by the commendation from the Zambian government in recognizing and appreciating the efforts of the agency in managing disasters in the country.
He lauded the desire for the collaboration of the agency with the Zambian department for disaster management, explaining that the due process would be followed towards the relationship.
He said that under his management, the agency would set an agenda geared toward maintaining a state of preparedness, prevention, and disaster management across the country.
Maihaja said that the success of this agenda would enable Nigeria to set a pace in disaster management and prevention in Africa. (NAN)
LIZ/AFA
Edited by Felix Ajide