The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has convened a multi-stakeholder strategic meeting following the global concerns surrounding the emergence of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and to strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness and response mechanisms.
In her address, the Director General NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by Dr. Ominode Abdullahi Bandele, Director Planning Research and Forecasting, emphasized the urgency of collaborative efforts in mitigating the potential risks posed by HMPV.
Highlighting the interconnected nature of global health threats, she stressed the importance of proactive planning and resource optimization to safeguard citizens and prevent the virus’s spread.
She also said that the meeting was designed to provide insights into the current global situation, assess Nigeria’s preparedness, and foster collaboration among stakeholders at all levels. Key areas of focus included enhancing surveillance, monitoring, and communication, as well as ensuring the alignment of resources and response strategies.
The DG NEMA also underscored the need for effective public information dissemination to build trust and encourage community participation in preventive measures.
Representatives of the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Chidinma Agbai, in her remarks, praised NEMA’s initiative and stressed the need for public enlightenment and accurate media communication regarding the virus.
Similarly, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Director in the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, further emphasized the role of grassroots communication in ensuring wide awareness.
Stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, international organizations, and health institutions, discussed the risks associated with HMPV and agreed on a unified approach to strengthen national preparedness and response. Participants included the Nigerian Immigration Service, Port Health Services, the National Orientation Agency, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, UNICEF, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent, among others.
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