By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) on Monday said   over 3,500 lives were rescued from various emergencies in 2024.

Acting Director-General of FEMD, Abdulrahman Mohammed stated this at a press briefing in Abuja.

He outlined the department’s milestones, challenges, and projections for 2025.

Among the major incidents tackled were flooding, building collapses, fire outbreaks, road crashes and an attempted suicide.

Mohammed revealed that FEMD’s proactive measures, such as partnerships with local divers, traditional rulers, and stakeholders, played a pivotal role in mitigating disasters.

In 2024, the department conducted over 165 emergency responses, rescuing 75 individuals from floods and 105 from collapsed buildings. While FEMD successfully saved 1,230 persons from fire incidents without fatalities, four lives were lost to building collapses and floods. Additionally, FEMD provided relief materials to affected communities, including displaced persons and households impacted by disasters.

FEMD also collaborated with stakeholders like the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET), the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), and traditional rulers to mitigate the impact of disasters. Early warning systems and community-based disaster management approaches proved vital in addressing flood risks, which affected several areas in the FCT, including Angwan Hakimi in Orozo, Dutse Makaranta, and Nyanya.

Notably, the department saved 105 individuals from building collapses, although four fatalities were recorded in incidents at Guzape, Garki 2, Kubwa, and Sabon Lugbe. FEMD also responded to earth tremors in Mpape, Katampe, and Maitama Extension, which left over 2,000 residents traumatized.

In its drive to improve preparedness, FEMD engaged schools through sensitization campaigns, established disaster management clubs, and conducted anti-terrorism simulation exercises. The department also partnered with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NARSDA) to enhance disaster response through geospatial data sharing and early warning systems.

FEMD distributed relief materials to disaster victims, including food items to 200 persons living with disabilities and Ramadan packages to internally displaced persons in Kabusa and Bwari. Additionally, the department donated hospital equipment to Kuje District Hospital and school beds to Government Secondary School, Kuje.

Looking ahead, Mohammed revealed plans to leverage technology for disaster management, including satellite-based risk assessment and real-time data monitoring to improve response time. “Our goal is to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in disaster response. We will deepen collaboration with traditional institutions and area councils while expanding campaigns on traditional and social media,” he added.

Despite challenges such as obsolete equipment, inadequate funding, and limited office space, FEMD remains committed to its mission. Mohammed reassured FCT residents of the department’s dedication to protecting lives and property while calling on stakeholders, including the media, for continued support.

“Disaster management is a collective responsibility, and with your partnership, we will make the FCT safer for all,” he concluded.

From Jude Dangwam, Jos

The Plateau State Project Coordinator, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nanbam Esther Danjuma-Lot has said the coming year 2025 look promising adding that citizen of the state should expect more developmental strides in line with the SDGs goals in the state by the Mutfwang administration.

The Coordinator in a facilitation message to citizens of the state on the occasion of Christmas and New year celebration signed by the Information Officer, Mathias Shenang Yengoet on Monday and made available to Newsmen commended the governor for the special attention to the needy and vulnerable in the society.

“On behalf of the Management team and Staff, extend warm Christmas and New Year felicitations to the peace-loving people of Plateau State and all Christians around the world.

“This season of love, hope, and renewal reminds us of the beauty of unity, compassion, and shared purpose. As we reflect on the strides made in 2024, I am filled with immense gratitude for your support and commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous Plateau State.” She noted

The Coordinator commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to the well-being of all citizens, “particularly the needy, people living with disabilities and the vulnerable among us.

“His dedication has brought hope and relief to many and continues to inspire our collective efforts in achieving sustainable development goals across the state.

“As we step into 2025, let us carry forward the spirit of kindness, resilience, and cooperation. Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for all Plateau citizens.

“May this festive season bring peace, joy, and prosperity to every home and every heart,” she prayed

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, Bethrand Onuoha has ordered for a watertight Security across the State throughout the Yuletide period and beyond.

He gave the order while briefing members of the Command Management Team as well as Tactical Commanders at the Command Headquarters, Lokoja, on Monday.

The CP further disclosed that the Command has adopted comprehensive crime prevention and control strategies in ensuring adequate security of life and property throughout the Yuletide.

He charged the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and their supervisory Area Commanders to deploy human and other operational assets to carry out confidence building and crime prevention patrols on major highways, residential and vulnerable points, places of worship and other places of interest. Also to carry out undercover operations to black spots, flash points and other vulnerable criminal spots to nip in the bud all forms of crime and criminality across the State and to make sure that detection of crimes are prompt to serve as effective deterrent to all criminals.

The CP, while assuring the good people of Kogi State of adequate security measures in place, urged them to remain security conscious throughout the Yuletide period, and to report any suspicious movement or activities within their community. Noting that, the public has a critical role to play in sustaining the peace in their community through effective collaboration with the Police and other Security Agencies by way of sharing information and intelligence that will assist in crime control and management.

He however, calls on Parents to caution their Children and Wards not to fall victims of playing knockouts, as anybody caught causing trouble will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

To this end, the Commissioner of Police hereby advises all Law-abiding Kogites to go about their lawful businesses without fear and warns that the Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of Law against persons who take Laws into their hands.