By SUMAILA OGBAJE

Nigerian Army has pledged alliance with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to enhance disaster preparedness, emergency response and humanitarian assistance as flooding threatens 33 states nationwide.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, gave the assurance during a courtesy by the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, on Friday in Abuja.

The Acting Direc’or, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, made this known in a statement on Friday.

Shaibu described emergency response as an integral elements of Nigeria’s overall security framework.

He described NEMA as a vital strategic partner, noting that its mandate aligns closely with the Nigerian Army’s constitutional role of supporting civil authorities in maintaining national stability during emergencies.

Shaibu assured the delegation of the Army’s readiness to provide swift and effective operational support in disaster situations across the country.

He revealed that the Nigerian Army has established specialised Disaster Response Units (DRUs) in all geopolitical zones, strategically equipped for rapid deployment to flood-prone and other high-risk areas.

In a move to strengthen inter-agency preparedness, the COAS directed the Chief of Training (Army) to grant NEMA access to the Land Forces Simulation Centre.

This, according to him, will facilitate joint tabletop exercises and scenario-based planning, thereby enhancing coordination, decision-making and overall operational efficiency ahead of field engagements.

He highlighted the need for intelligence-driven disaster risk management and preventive strategies to ensure proctiveness.

The Army Chief urged NEMA to intensify monitoring of critical infrastructure such as dams and reservoirs, while also fostering regional cooperation on transboundary water management to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding.

He stressed that effective disaster management relies heavily on early warning systems, timely information dissemination and seamless collaboration among relevant agencies.

According to him, a coordinated national approach remains essential for protecting lives, preserving critical infrastructure and sustaining socio-economic stability.

Earlier the NEMA boss commended the Nigerian army for its consistent support in disaster management operations nationwide.

Umar disclosed that forecasts indicate a high risk of flooding in 33 states during the current rainy season, with simulation exercises planned for vulnerable states such as Oyo, Cross River and Adamawa.

She further appealed for increased military support in key areas including engineering, aviation and search-and-rescue operations to enhance the country’s disaster response capabilities. (NAN)