By Olawale Lamina
As part of proactive measures to enhance emergency response and save lives during the 2025 flood season, the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has deployed Mobile Intensive Care Unit, MICU, ambulances to some of its Operation Offices across the country.
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, approved the deployment following an assessment that revealed critical equipment gaps in some of the field offices.
According to the Agency, the decision aligns with its ongoing efforts to optimize resource allocation and improve disaster response capabilities at the sub-national level.
The DG stated that the deployment had become necessary as a strategic step towards strengthening the operational capacity of NEMA zonal Directorate and Operation Offices, adding that, “With the increasing risk of climate-induced disasters, particularly flooding, it is imperative that our teams are well-equipped to provide immediate and effective life-saving interventions.”
The NEMA powered MICU ambulances are equipped with modern emergency medical tools, including oxygen supply systems, patient monitoring devices, suction kits, and other essential life support equipment. The features are suitable for stabilizing patients during transit to medical facilities, thereby significantly improving survival chances in emergency situations.
The Pinnacle Times gathered that the ambulances had been dispatched to NEMA’s operational offices in Kaduna, Owerri, and Uyo, based on vulnerability assessments and logistical considerations.
The agency emphasized that the initiative is a reflection of its broader commitment to building a robust disaster preparedness and response framework nationwide.
With current climatic forecasts indicating a high probability of severe flooding in several states, the agency assured that it intensified efforts to upgrade infrastructure, enhance inter-agency coordination, and engage communities in risk awareness programs.
In addition to the deployment of the advanced rescue equipment, NEMA leadership said it has continued to conduct flood simulation exercises, community sensitization campaigns, and stakeholder coordination meetings as part of its comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategy.
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