FEMD, NARSDA Sign MOU On Deployment Of Satellite Imagery For Emergency Management

By: Nkechi Isa

The FCT Emergency Management Department,(FEMD) and the National Space Research and Development Agency, (NARSDA), have signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) on the use of satellite imagery and its application for emergency assessment and management.

Accordingly, this is to enhance FEMD’s activities as the lead coordinating Agency of all emergencies in the FCT.

The objectives of the MOU include; the use and application of space technology for disaster management focusing on prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery activities.

The agreement also covers the establishment of a joint steering committee comprising equal representation from both agencies and training and capacity building of both operational and management staff of FEMD as well as the
establishment of a disaster situation room for disaster management in the FCT.

The MOU also covers the exchange of information and data in the disaster management field.

Speaking during the signing of the MOU, the Ag. Director-General of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed expressed the hope that the MOU would be fully implemented for timely response to emergencies.

Commending NASRDA, Engr. Abdulrahman assured that FEMD would uphold its end of the agreement.

Also speaking, the Director-General of NARSDA, Dr. Olumide Adepoju, called on the Team from both agencies to look at achievable terms and implementation strategies to come up with a report within two weeks.

While assuring the full implementation of the MOU, he added, “On our part, we will provide all the necessary tools within our corridor to drive the successful implementation of the MOU for the benefit of the FCT”.