Abia inaugurates emergency management committees in 17 LGAs

The Abia State Government has inaugurated Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs) across the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots disaster preparedness and response.

The inauguration, which took place at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia, was performed on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, by the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Sunny Jackson.

Jackson explained that each committee would comprise 14 members, with the Local Government Mayors serving as chairmen. He said the initiative was a proactive measure to tackle the increasing frequency of disasters linked to climate change and environmental hazards.

“The creation of LEMCs is timely and critical. As disasters become more frequent due to climate change, decentralising emergency coordination is necessary for rapid response,” Jackson said, assuring that the state government would provide adequate support for the committees to function effectively.

Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Ogbonna, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa, commended the state for the initiative, noting that the committees would serve as first responders during emergencies. He pledged the ministry’s full collaboration.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the Mayor of Aba North LGA, Mr. Timothy Iheke, stressed the importance of community involvement in disaster management. He also called for the establishment of dedicated offices for the LEMCs to enhance their operational efficiency.

The ceremony featured key presentations by Dr. Jackson on the establishment and strengthening of LEMCs in Abia State as well as frameworks for local preparedness, response, and resilience.