Steady Leadership, Renewed Hope: Zubaida Umar’s Transformational Year at NEMA

As the year draws to a close, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) stands out as one of the public institutions that has effectively aligned its mandate with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At the heart of this renewed energy and visible impact is the leadership of Mrs. Zubaida Umar, Director-General of NEMA, whose tenure has been marked by decisive action, professionalism, and people-centred emergency response.

From assumption of office, Zubaida Umar made it clear that emergency management under her watch would be proactive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of Nigerians. This vision resonates strongly with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises efficient governance, institutional reforms, and the protection of lives and livelihoods.

Strengthening Emergency Response Nationwide

One of the most defining achievements of the DG in the past year has been the strengthening of NEMA’s operational response across the country. Under her leadership, NEMA has demonstrated improved coordination in responding to floods, fire disasters, building collapses, road traffic crashes, insurgency-induced displacement, and other humanitarian emergencies.

The agency’s rapid deployment of search and rescue teams, relief materials, and technical support to affected states significantly reduced response times and mitigated human suffering. Flood-prone communities, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and victims of market fires and communal incidents benefitted from timely interventions that underscored a renewed commitment to humanitarian service.

Equally important has been the emphasis on inter-agency collaboration, with NEMA working closely with state emergency management agencies (SEMAs), the military, paramilitary organisations, NGOs, and development partners. This synergy has enhanced efficiency, reduced duplication of efforts, and ensured better outcomes for disaster-affected populations.

Institutional Reforms and Capacity Building

In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s focus on strengthening institutions, Zubaida Umar has prioritised capacity building and professionalism within NEMA. Regular trainings, simulations, and workshops for staff at headquarters and zonal offices have improved technical competence in disaster risk reduction, search and rescue, relief distribution, and incident reporting.

The DG has also championed improved planning, data-driven decision-making, and accountability in relief operations, reinforcing public confidence in the agency. These reforms are gradually repositioning NEMA from a largely reactive body to one that embraces preparedness, early warning, and risk reduction.

National and International Recognition

The visible impact of Zubaida Umar’s leadership has not gone unnoticed. Over the year, she has received a plethora of awards and commendations from professional bodies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, and humanitarian stakeholders. These recognitions celebrate her administrative competence, commitment to public service, and outstanding contributions to disaster management and humanitarian response in Nigeria.

Beyond personal accolades, these awards reflect growing national confidence in NEMA as an institution capable of delivering on its mandate. They also underscore Nigeria’s improving profile in emergency management practices within the West African sub-region and beyond.

Humanitarian Leadership with a Human Face

Perhaps most remarkable about Zubaida Umar’s tenure is her human-centred leadership style. She has consistently emphasised dignity, transparency, and empathy in the treatment of disaster victims, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. This approach aligns seamlessly with the spirit of Renewed Hope—governance that restores trust and reassures citizens that the state truly cares.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria looks to the coming year, the achievements recorded by NEMA under Zubaida Umar provide a strong foundation for deeper reforms and greater impact. With sustained political support, improved funding, and continued institutional strengthening, NEMA is well positioned to play an even more critical role in safeguarding lives and livelihoods.

In sum, the year ending has shown that effective leadership, when aligned with a clear national vision like President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, can translate into tangible results. Zubaida Umar’s stewardship of NEMA stands as a testament to what is possible when competence, compassion, and commitment converge in public service.

Abdulkadir Ibrahim
NEMA press Unit
23.12.2024