By Nkechi Eze
In a bid to address the challenges of numerous natural disasters and emergencies, including floods, wildfires, and oil spills, the FCT Emergency Management Department,(FEMD) and the National Space Research and Development Agency, (NARSDA), have signed a Memorandum Of Understanding MOU on the use of satellite imagery and it’s application for emergency assessment and management.
A statement signed and made available to newsmen by the Head,Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa states that the MOU signing is to enhance FEMD’s activities as the lead coordinating Agency of all emergencies in the FCT.
According to her, the objectives of the MOU include; use and application of space technology for disaster management focussing on prevention, preparedness, response and recovery activities.
Further more, the agreement also covers the establishment of a joint steering committee comprising equal representation from both agencies and training and capacity building of both operational and management staff of FEMD as well as the
establishment of a disaster situation room for the purpose of disaster management in the FCT.
The MOU also covers the exchange of information and data in the disaster management field.
The Ag. Director General of FEMD Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed in his remarks at the signing of the MOU, expressed the hope that the MOU would be fully implemented. While commending NASRDA, Engr. Abdulrahman assured that FEMD would uphold it’s own end of the agreement.
The Director General of NARSDA, Dr Olumide Adepoju while speaking, called on the Team from both agencies to look at achievable terms and implementation strategy and to come up with a report within two weeks.
He assured on the full implementation of the MOU.
“On our part we will provide all the necessary tools within our corridor to drive the successful implementation of the MOU for the benefit of the FCT”. He said.
