By Nkechi Eze
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has participated in a major National Crisis Response Simulation Exercise, code-named “Ex Rapid Response 2”, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to test inter-agency collaboration, coordination, and response to terrorist threats.
The exercise, which took place at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, simulated a large-scale Marauding Terrorist Fire Arms (MTFA) attack scenario. It brought together key stakeholders across the nation’s security and emergency management architecture. While Nigerian security forces coordinated by ONSA neutralised the terrorist threat, NEMA led first responders in managing the humanitarian and emergency consequences.
As part of the drill, counter-terrorism and insurgency resources including K-9 units, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) assets, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, hazardous materials specialists, and mass casualty evacuation and management systems were deployed to test readiness and efficiency.
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, actively participated in the exercise and commended the synergy displayed among responding agencies. She noted that the initiative was a crucial platform to assess the nation’s preparedness and strengthen institutional capacities.
“This simulation has once again demonstrated the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in tackling emergencies of national concern. It also underscores the need for continuous training, resource integration, and information sharing to enhance our collective capacity for timely and effective response,” Umar said.
Also speaking, the Director of Presidential Communications, Command and Control Centre, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Nmoyel, who coordinated the exercise, explained that its primary objective was to reinforce synergy among agencies, improve joint operations, and build resilience against emerging security threats.
NEMA, being the lead agency for mass casualty management and public health emergency coordination, played a pivotal role during the exercise by demonstrating its responsibility in ensuring the safety and protection of citizens during major incidents.
The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to sustained inter-agency cooperation in line with the Federal Government’s drive to strengthen national security and disaster management capabilities.
