The Director-General of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, has urged members of staff to adopt modern technologies in emergency management.
Umar spoke on Monday, October 7, 2024, at the opening of the NEMA Customers Service Week titled “Above and Beyond” in Abuja.
She commended the resilience and perseverance of the workers in the face of challenges.
“In times of disasters and emergencies, your ability to remain calm, collected and focused on the needs of those affected is invaluable.
“The stories of saving lives, communities rebuilding, and hope restoration are a testament to your hard work and commitment to service.
“As we move forward, I urge you to continue seeking ways to improve our service delivery.’’
Umar said that the world was in an era where technology was changing the landscape of emergency management, from early warning systems to disaster mapping and response coordination tools.
“Let us embrace innovation and continuously improve our systems and processes to better serve the public.’’
Umar tasked the workforce on teamwork saying that it remained one of strongest assets of the agency.
According to her, the complexity of emergency situations requires collaboration across different departments and external partners.
“By working together, sharing knowledge and supporting each other, we can achieve even greater success in fulfilling our mission.
“As we celebrate Customer Service Week, let us reaffirm our commitment to working above and beyond in achieving excellence in service delivery, innovation and teamwork in all that we do.
“Together, we will continue to build a stronger and more responsive agency that stands ready to serve the people of this nation in their times of greatest need above and beyond their expectations,” she said.
In his remarks, the Mr Bello Danlami, the Information Officer of United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), commended NEMA for the quality of its services.
He said that the NEMA’s unwavering dedication to providing timely and essential services in the face of emergencies and crises was commendable.
“Your efforts make a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals across Nigeria, ensuring their safety and well-being during the most challenging times.
“At UNOCHA, we recognise the vital role that customer service plays in delivering humanitarian aid and we salute your professionalism, resilience and commitment to serving those in need.
“As we continue to collaborate in addressing humanitarian challenges, we look forward to building on the strong foundation of partnership that we share,” he said.
In her remarks, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, the National Coordinator, Service Compact with All Nigerians (SERVICOM), commended NEMA for the initiative.
She said that the celebration pointed out the importance of customer service.
Represented by the SERVCOM Officer, Ms Rebecca Abah, Akajemeli said that irrespective of shape or sizes, customer came first.
She said that developing and implementing plans to prepare communities for potential emergencies remained fundamental.
“Let us bear in mind that going “Above and Beyond” in satisfying our customers requires the commitment of all of us from the front desk to top management.
“Therefore, all hands must be on deck to ensure that quality service is provided for the benefit of all citizens at all times,” she said.
By EricJames Ochigbo
