National Emergency Management Agencys NEMA
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness and response at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Imo State.
The agreement was formalised at the NEMA Owerri operational office, with Head of Operations, Mr. Nnamdi Igwe, saying the partnership is designed to improve coordination in managing airport emergencies and disaster situations.
Under the agreement, NEMA will provide technical support, equipment, personnel, and logistics to assist emergency operations when required, while stressing that all interventions are strictly for national service without additional legal obligations beyond the MoU.
FAAN, through its Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services unit, will ensure continuous maintenance of emergency equipment, rapid response during incidents, and effective communication with all stakeholders during emergencies.
The MoU also outlines joint training programmes and improved collaboration to enhance safety standards at the airport.
The FAAN delegation included key safety and operations officials, who participated in discussions leading to the formal signing of the agreement.
In a related development, the NEMA Owerri office has commenced distribution of relief materials to communities affected by flooding in Mbaitoli Local Government Area.
Mr. Igwe confirmed that the intervention followed approval from the Director-General of NEMA, in response to the 2025 flood risk assessment, which identified Mbaitoli, Ohaji/Egbema, and Oguta as vulnerable areas.
He said the relief distribution in communities such as Nwaorieubi is part of efforts to provide timely humanitarian assistance to victims and reduce the impact of seasonal flooding.
Authorities say the dual interventions airport emergency preparedness and flood relief reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster management and humanitarian response across Imo State.
