NEMA DG pledges scientific approach to disaster mgt

The new Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Retired Air Vice Marshal Muhammadu Mohammed, says he hopes to approach disaster management scientifically.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja during his maiden meeting with journalists, he said despite steps and actions taken by people or states, little could be done to avert disasters from occurring hence it was important to effectively respond and mitigate the effect of disasters once they occur.

He said under his leadership, disaster management would seek to mobilise resources of all relevant bodies and organisations, national or international, towards preparedness, prevention, mitigation, emergency response and recovery.

He said the agency would give preference to flood and endure it does not create more havoc in the society.

Mohammed said the agency would equip its staff with the requisite knowledge through training.