(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Workshop-on-Early-Warning-system-organised-by-NEMA-in-Abuja-300x200.jpg) The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is working towards the establishment of a National Emergency Information Centre (NEIC) for timely response to media enquiries on disasters and emergency occurrences in the country.
The Head of the Public Relations Unit of the agency, Yushau Shuaib who made the disclosure at the end of a workshop organized by the NEMA Abuja Operations Office said that the centre would have states of the arts media equipment for efficient processing and timely transmission of disaster-related information based on best practices.
He further disclosed that the National Emergency Information Centre which will be domiciled at the NEMA headquarters would have representations from different response agencies who would be gathering information from their respective rescue and relief officers in various positions and in turn, relay timely and accurate emergency information to the public through diverse media channels.
He added that the Director of the agency, Muhammad Sani-Sidi had mandated members of its Media and Information Committee on Emergency Management (MICEM) who are spokespersons of response agencies to develop action plans for the implementation of Integrated Public Alert Messaging System (IPAMS).
"The Committee is mandated to submit the working document on the first Integrated Public Alert Messaging System (IPAMS) in the country that would give clear guidelines on the type of information, methods of dissemination and approving authority towards forewarning Nigerian people against disasters.
Speaking at the occasion, the Zonal Cordinator of the Abuja Operation Office of NEMA, Ishaya Chonoko said that the agency is championing the need for Integrated Early Warning Alert Messaging Systems that would be deployed to send cautionary messages to specific target audiences against flood, heavy traffics and disaster-prone areas.
He added that the success of the early warning messages would be determined by the level of cooperation with partnering media, telephone operators and other stakeholders in disaster awareness campaigns. He called on media practitioners to give their support to the creation of public awareness against disaster, especially disaster and risk reduction campaigns.
Via: Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria
That is a wonderful initiative from them. It would go a long way in helping people. Good one from them.