The National Emergency Management Agency has commenced developing a National Policy on Relief and Rehabilitation Interventions for Nigeria.

The initiative followed a national stakeholders’ consultative workshop held in Abuja on Monday to harmonise and standardise relief and rehabilitation efforts nationwide.

NEMA’s director-general, Zubaida Umar, who declared the two-day workshop open, said the policy would provide a coordinated framework for relief and rehabilitation interventions across the country.

She said the framework would define stakeholders’ responsibilities, strengthen accountability and improve operational efficiency.

According to her, the policy will ensure prompt humanitarian assistance without duplication or gaps in service delivery.

Ms Umar appreciated the World Bank for providing technical and financial support for developing the policy.

She also acknowledged development partners and stakeholders for strengthening disaster management and humanitarian response in Nigeria.

Francis Nkoka, the World Bank’s senior disaster risk management specialist, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting the policy development process.

Mr Nkoka described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening disaster risk management and building a more resilient Nigeria. He also commended the NEMA chief for leading the initiative.

The World Food Programme’s country director, David Stevenson, lauded NEMA for initiating the policy development process.

Mr Stevenson said the policy would improve coordination and delivery of relief and rehabilitation interventions nationwide.

(NAN)