The Nigeria’s House of Representatives has called on several federal government agencies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, the National Security Adviser, and others, to review the current disaster policy framework for national development. This move is in response to the hardship faced by Nigerians due to natural and man-made disasters.
The motion, titled “Call for national disaster insurance scheme,” was moved by Mr. Francis Omoleye, representing Ijero/DEkiti West/Efon Federal Constituency in Ekiti State. He highlighted the insufficiency of resources allocated to the National Emergency Management Agency, leading to ineffective disaster management and insufficient relief for affected victims.
The House expressed concern about the destruction of private and public infrastructure annually by floods, fire, and storms, emphasizing the gaps in disaster mitigation management in Nigeria. It noted that affected victims often face frustration and contemplate suicide due to dashed hopes and expectations after mitigation exercises.
Recognizing the rise in unwholesome practices by criminals, possibly linked to the frustrations of victims who lose their livelihoods, the House urged relevant agencies to re-examine the disaster policy framework. The proposed action includes implementing a new national disaster insurance scheme to instill public confidence and address disasters affecting citizens regardless of class, creed, or gender.
The House also called for public enlightenment and sensitization programs nationwide in all Nigerian languages to educate people on early warning signals, especially regarding fire during the upcoming harmattan season. Committees on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Appropriations, Environment, National Security and Intelligence, Finance, Water Resources, Human Rights, and Legislative Compliance were mandated to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
