By Olukayode Idowu
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has applauded humanitarian workers in the country especially its staff who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving others.
NEMA, in a statement by its Director General, Mustapha Ahmed to commemorate the 2023 World Humanitarian Day, also acknowledged those who have suffered injury, trauma, and tragic experiences while actively engaged in their roles.
According to the agency, it has documented instances of staff losing their lives and being kidnapped, underscoring the challenges faced by those who dedicate themselves to providing assistance in times of crisis.
The statement expressed his solidarity with the staff, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Local Emergency Management Committees, LEMCs, and other humanitarian partners.
Ahmed, in the statement recognized their role in collectively improving the wellbeing of communities and humanity at large.
Ahmed further reinforced the importance of unwavering commitment to delivering life-saving assistance, echoing the sentiment of #NoMatterWhat.
He said: “As part of the World Humanitarian Day, we must take a pause to remember and celebrate NEMA humanitarian actors that have lost their lives and those that have suffered injury and trauma in the line of duty. It is on record that some NEMA staff have lost their lives and some kidnapped while many others have suffered tragic experiences while on active duty.”
He added that: “On this auspicious day, I want to express my solidarity with the staff of NEMA, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs), the Nigeria Red Cross, the International Red Cross and the Red Crescent, the numerous NEMA partners, the UN system and community volunteers working in various hotspots in Nigeria and across the world.
“There is no doubt that your commitment to giving succor to persons in distress has enabled us to collectively make our communities and the world a better place for us and the future generation of humanity to live in dignity, peace and prosperity. “Despite all the difficulties and dangers faced as humanitarian workers, we must not give up on our commitment to deliver life-saving assistance to people in need, #NoMatterWhat.”