In a strategic move to strengthen disaster preparedness and response at the grassroots level, the Abia State Government has officially established the Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) across the seventeen Local Government Areas of the state.
The establishment ceremony, held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia, was performed on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, by the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Sunny Jackson.
Dr. Jackson disclosed that each LEMC comprises fourteen members, with the respective Local Government Mayors serving as Chairmen. He emphasized that the initiative is a proactive step by the government in response to the growing impact of climate change and other environmental challenges affecting communities.
” The creation of LEMCs is timely and critical, as disaster become more frequent due to climate change, it is important to decentralize emergency coordination for rapid response ” Dr. Jackson stated, assuring that government will provide the necessary support for the committees to function effectively.
In his remarks, the commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Ogbonna represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa commended the State Government for the initiative and noted that the committees will serve as first responders in their respective LGAs. He pledged full support and collaboration from the Ministry of Environment.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of other Mayors, the Mayor of Aba North LGA, Mr. Timothy Iheke underscored the importance of community involvement in disaster management. He advocated for the establishment of dedicated offices for the LEMCs to enable prompt emergency response.
The event featured key presentations, including the Establishment and Strengthening of LEMCs in Abia State, Framework for Local Preparedness, Response and Resilience both delivered by Dr. Sunny Jackson.
