The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Tuesday deployed Mobile Intensive Care Unit ambulances in some of its operational offices across the country as part of measures to enhance emergency response during the 2025 flood season.

The Director General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, approved the deployment following an assessment that revealed critical equipment gaps in some of the field offices.

The ambulances have been dispatched to NEMA’s operational offices in Kaduna, Kaduna State, Owerri, Imo State and Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, based on vulnerability assessments and logistical considerations.

According to Umar, the deployment is a strategic step towards strengthening the operational capacity of NEMA zonal directorates and operational offices.

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She said, “With the increasing risk of climate-induced disasters, particularly flooding, it is imperative that our teams are well-equipped to provide immediate and effective life-saving interventions.

“The MICU ambulances are equipped with modern emergency medical tools, including oxygen supply systems, patient monitoring devices, suction kits, and other essential life support equipment.

“These features make them suitable for stabilising patients during transit to medical facilities, thereby significantly improving survival chances in emergency situations.

“This initiative reflects NEMA’s broader commitment to building a robust disaster preparedness and response framework nationwide.

“With current climatic forecasts indicating a high probability of severe flooding in several states, the agency has intensified its efforts to upgrade infrastructure, enhance inter-agency coordination, and engage communities in risk awareness programmes.

“In addition to the deployment of the advanced rescue equipment, NEMA continues to conduct flood simulation exercises, community sensitisation campaigns, and stakeholder coordination meetings as part of its comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategy.”