.jpeg "In order to combat inequity in disaster risk reduction in the FCT, FEMA mobilizes stakeholders.")
The call was made by Alhaji Muhammad Sabo, the acting Director General of FEMA, during an event held in Abuja on Friday, in observance of the 2023 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR).
The United Nations General Assembly has designated October 13th as an annual observance to commemorate global efforts in mitigating the impact of catastrophes on individuals and communities.
The designated day was also allocated for the purpose of increasing awareness and mobilizing individuals to actively contribute towards the development of communities that are more resilient to disasters.
Sabo (year) identified various stakeholders involved in the context under study, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, local and international entities, as well as private individuals.
The individual expressed that the theme, "Fighting inequality for a resilient future," had significant relevance to the difficulties encountered in constructing a more secure and fair world that encompasses everyone.
He asserts that there is an inseparable connection between inequality and catastrophe risk, emphasizing that disasters, regardless of their origin, do not exhibit discriminatory behavior.
According to Sabo, the potential targets of these strikes are not limited by location or timing, as they might occur unpredictably and affect individuals indiscriminately. Nevertheless, the effects of these events are not uniformly dispersed. The burden of societal challenges is frequently borne by populations that are disadvantaged and marginalized, hence worsening pre-existing inequities.
In the context of catastrophe risk reduction, it is imperative to recognize and address existing inequities. In order to foster resilience and ensure a robust future, it is essential to actively combat inequalities through multifaceted approaches.
For instance, those residing in impoverished conditions are more prone to inhabiting regions that are susceptible to various threats.
Moreover, individuals belonging to this demographic are at a decreased likelihood of having access to early warning systems and other services that are crucial in ensuring their safety.
The speaker emphasized the importance of allocating resources towards the development of resilience within local communities, as well as guaranteeing that marginalized groups possess the necessary resources, knowledge, and infrastructure to effectively endure and recuperate from catastrophic events.
According to his perspective, this entails enhanced availability of healthcare services, educational opportunities, clean water resources, and housing facilities.
According to Sabo, the 2023 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) offers a chance to enhance understanding of the connection between inequalities and disaster risk, as well as to implement measures aimed at mitigating inequalities in order to foster the development of a more resilient future for all individuals.
The director general further emphasized the importance of actively considering the perspectives of individuals who are more vulnerable to disasters, asserting that their insights and expertise are vital for the formulation of efficacious strategies.
Sabo advocated for the acknowledgment of gender equality within the context of disaster risk reduction, emphasizing that women and girls have a disproportionate burden of suffering in the aftermath of disasters.
According to his perspective, the inclusion of their voices and leadership is crucial in formulating efficacious solutions.
It is imperative to advocate for the implementation of policies and practices that are geared towards mitigating disparities in the accessibility of economic opportunities, social services, and involvement in decision-making processes.
Furthermore, it is imperative to recognize that the degradation of the environment and the occurrence of climate change serve to intensify the dangers associated with natural disasters.
In order to tackle this issue, it is imperative that we engage in collaborative efforts aimed at mitigating carbon emissions and transitioning towards more sustainable practices that yield benefits for a broader population, rather than a limited subset.
The notion of combatting inequality in order to establish a robust future serves as a compelling indication that the task of reducing disaster risk is not solely a matter of technical complexity, but rather a moral obligation.
Let us collectively dedicate ourselves to collaborating harmoniously, ensuring the inclusion and participation of all individuals. According to Sabo, it is imperative to construct a future that is both resilient and equitable, with the aim of benefiting future generations.
Additionally, Dr. Abbas Idriss, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Aygee and Hazard Consulting Ltd, emphasized the importance of addressing various types of inequality within the realm of disaster management.
Idriss, the former director general of the organization, advocated for collaborative efforts to address anthropogenic disasters and mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
According to Mr. Adesola Olusade, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), addressing the issue of inequality necessitates the implementation of systematic and well-planned initiatives by the government. These initiatives should focus on empowering women, girls, and young individuals.