NEMA Initiates Development of National Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Policy

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has officially begun the process of drafting a comprehensive National Policy for Relief and Rehabilitation Intervention. This initiative aims to bridge existing coordination gaps and create a more robust, standardized framework for managing disaster response, recovery, and rehabilitation across Nigeria.

During a national stakeholders’ workshop held in Abuja, NEMA Director-General, Zubaida Umar, highlighted the urgency of the policy, noting that Nigeria is facing an increasing frequency of complex environmental disasters. She emphasized that while the country has made strides in emergency response, the lack of an overarching national policy has hindered consistent implementation and coordination.

The proposed framework is designed to establish clear guidelines for the planning, execution, and evaluation of relief efforts. It intends to clarify the roles and responsibilities of federal, state, and local governments, as well as development partners and the private sector, to ensure accountability and equity in aid delivery.

The World Bank has expressed its support for the project. Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist Francis Nkoka noted that the policy is critical as the country continues to combat risks associated with climate change, rapid urbanization, and environmental degradation. According to the stakeholders, the goal is to shift from reactive emergency assistance to a structured approach that supports long-term community resilience and recovery.

The draft policy focuses on several key areas, including setting clear thresholds for activating relief efforts, prioritizing support for vulnerable populations such as children and persons with disabilities, and establishing standard timelines for emergency response. Furthermore, it aims to clarify the specific responsibilities of different government tiers to prevent institutional overlap and create a structured mechanism for private sector participation.

This policy development coincides with intensified government efforts to boost national disaster preparedness ahead of the peak 2026 rainy season, which has already been flagged for high flood risks in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory. NEMA officials reiterated that the final document will be shaped by collective expert input to ensure it is practical, implementable, and effective.