Recognising this need, the Nigerian Red Cross Society has been working with the Government of Nigeria, IFRC Disaster Law and other key stakeholders to develop and adopt a pre-disaster agreement.
This agreement outlines roles and responsibilities for a more coordinated response to disasters, marking a significant advancement in Nigeria's approach to disaster management. It is designed to foster a cooperative framework for disaster preparedness and response, including public health emergencies, this initiative represents a vital step in ensuring a more resilient and efficient disaster management system in Nigeria.
Abbakar Kende, Secretary General of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, emphasized the organization's commitment to legal preparedness.
“We as a National Society are seeking to strengthen our role as an auxiliary to the Nigerian government. We are seeking to enhance coordination as we and our partners, IFRC, collaborate with various government agencies in our disaster response activities.”
Barrister Muazu Dikwa, the National Legal Adviser of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, highlighted the collaborative nature of this initiative.
“We aren't disrupting any existing law, we are just strengthening our responses during disasters and our role as auxiliary to government agencies in responding to disasters.”
The adoption of a pre-disaster agreement will reflect a proactive and united front in the face of increasingly challenging environmental conditions, setting a precedent for disaster management efforts in Nigeria and potentially other nations facing similar challenges within the region.