As the world marks the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, the minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajia Sadiya Umar Farouq, has said the federal government is committed to working on a more enabling policy environment for disaster risk reduction at all levels
In a statement made available to Blueprint in Abuja Monday by her office, the minister said government will work towards enduring solutions to substantially reduce damage to infrastructure and disruption of basic services by ensuring resilience and reducing the negative impact disasters have on Nigerians.
The statement reads in part: “Over the years, the adverse effects of climate change and other environmental factors have not spared Nigeria; particularly with the increase in reported cases of floods and erosion around the country. The need for the celebration of this day to raise awareness and acknowledge the ways people and communities are working to reduce disaster risks through prevention, mitigation and preparedness is therefore imperative.
“Natural disasters cause a lot of damage to infrastructure leading to economic losses while hampering the delivery of essential services like education and health care. I encourage everyone to participate in building disaster resilient communities and improve on preparedness. Thid ministry is working on a more enabling policy environment for disaster risk reduction at all levels.
“The President Muhammadu Buhari led administration has in recent times through Agencies like NEMA has done a lot to address disasters and disaster risk through effective response, management and prevention. Also, the creation of this ministry is an indication of government’s commitment to providing a more coordinated efficient and sustainable approach to disaster response, management and prevention.”
The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, which holds on the 13th of October every year, is a day set aside by the United Nations to promote a global culture of risk awareness and disaster reduction.
The theme for this year’s celebration is: “Reduce disaster damage to critical infrastructure and the disruption of basic services.”
