Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for stronger regional cooperation to enhance emergency management across Nigeria.
Speaking at the first National SEMA Conference in Lagos, he stressed that disasters cannot be tackled by one state alone.
The governor, represented by his deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said, “Emergencies such as floods, epidemics and fire outbreaks do not recognize borders. We must work together to protect our people.”
Sanwo-Olu highlighted investments made by Lagos in strengthening its emergency response system. He noted improvements in LASEMA’s call center, the Lagos Rescue Unit and the use of mobile applications for quicker response.
He also pointed to the role of technology in disaster management. According to him, “We are deploying early warning systems and expanding digital platforms to ensure faster communication and effective coordination.”
The Director General of NEMA, Zubaida Abubakar, assured participants that the federal agency will continue to support state emergency bodies. She said, “Our goal is to build a resilient Nigeria through active collaboration with sub-national agencies.”
The conference, themed “Strengthening Sub-National Emergency Management For A Resilient Nigeria,” brought together stakeholders from across the country to discuss how states can jointly improve readiness and response to emergencies.