By Abdulkadir Ibrahim
The appointment of Mrs. Zubaida Umar as the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) signals a new era of innovation and achievement, particularly in the ongoing distribution of food to vulnerable populations across Nigeria.
Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March 2024, Mrs. Umar brings over two decades of experience in finance and corporate services to her new role. Her expertise in strategic transformation and modernization is expected to significantly enhance NEMA’s operations.
Under Mrs. Umar’s leadership, NEMA has undertaken a groundbreaking initiative as part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, distributing 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities from the Strategic Grains Reserve. Approved by President Tinubu, this initiative aims to reach the most vulnerable populations across Nigeria’s 774 local governments. Since the exercise began, the Agency has delivered various grains to states including Sokoto, Ebonyi, Niger, Kaduna, Kebbi, Delta, Plateau, Borno, Yobe, Abia, Anambra, and Kogi.
Coordinated by NEMA in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and the Office of the National Security Adviser, the distribution process is noted for its efficiency and effectiveness. Most states have received their allocations for local distribution through committees comprised of local government officials, security agencies, traditional and religious bodies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
NEMA employs advanced logistics and data analytics to ensure the food items reach their intended recipients promptly and without diversion. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also highlights NEMA’s capability in handling large-scale humanitarian efforts.
Mrs. Umar’s vision extends beyond immediate relief distribution. She is committed to establishing a sustainable system capable of quickly responding to future emergencies. Her strategy includes enhancing NEMA’s readiness for climate change impacts and disaster prevention, as evidenced by preparations for predicted flood disasters in hotspots across the country in 2024.
Mrs. Zubaida Umar’s achievements as NEMA’s Director General, so far underscore her innovative leadership and dedication to service. The successful food distribution across Nigeria exemplifies her positive impact on many lives. With Mrs. Umar at the helm, NEMA is set to become a model of efficiency and preparedness, setting a benchmark for emergency management agencies worldwide.
Abdulkadir Ibrahim, is Assistant Chief Information and Public Relations Officer at NEMA Headquarters, Abuja
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