By Rakiya A.Muhammad
To enhance humanitarian coordination in Sokoto, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) convened partners and stakeholders for an Emergency Preparedness Meeting.
It provided a platform for extensive brainstorming on effective strategies to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the state.
Among the pressing issues discussed was the plight of Tidibele Ward in Isa, where fear of bandit attacks has forced more than 2,500 households from their homes.
The Sokoto SEMA Special Adviser, Hon. Aminu Liman Bodinga, highlighted the challenges encountered by IDPs from Isa, Sabon Birni, and other affected regions.
He applauded NGOs, development partners, and stakeholders for supporting the Sokoto State Government’s efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations across the state.
Bodinga accentuated ongoing initiatives of the Governor Ahmad Aliyu-led government to assist vulnerable individuals, low-income groups, and IDPs in all 23 Local Government Areas.
As part of these support measures, the Special Adviser commended the recent allocation of ₦150 million by the Sokoto State Government to 15 Local Government Areas impacted by the 2025 flood disaster.
He further noted the government’s acquisition of mechanized boats to improve community safety in flood-prone areas, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing preparedness.
The Executive Secretary of Sokoto SEMA, Prof. Abubakar Sambo Junaidu, applauded the active engagement of stakeholders in the emergency preparedness discussions.
He also recognised the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) for its partnership with Sokoto SEMA in organizing the meeting, emphasizing collaborative efforts in humanitarian coordination.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of organisations and agencies, from humanitarian giants to local agencies, all united in their commitment to making a difference.
They include, among others, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Life Helpers Initiative (LHI), COOPI, Red Cross, Action Against Hunger (ACF), AIF, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Sokoto State, IOM-DTM, and GIScor.
