NEMA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT AS DAY OF AFRICAN DESCENT CELEBRATES RESILIENCE AND LEADERSHIP
The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, has reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to the empowerment and protection of women and girls, particularly in times of emergencies and disaster situations.
She made this known during the 2025 International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, held on Thursday, 31st July 2025, in Abuja.
The event was organized by the Integrated Women and Youths Emergency Centre (IWAYEC).
Mrs. Zubaida Umar, who was represented by the Director, Special Duties, NEMA, Hajiya Fatima Kasim, described the occasion as a powerful reminder of the resilience, brilliance, and boundless potential of African women and girls.
She commended the organizers for creating a platform that celebrates and uplifts women who continue to excel despite formidable challenges.
She said “empowerment is not just a slogan, it is the catalyst for transformation. When we embrace our culture and heritage as sources of strength and ensure that leadership is inclusive and representative, we lay the foundation for a resilient and equitable future.”
Mrs. Zubaida Umar further explained that NEMA is deliberate in prioritizing the protection and support of women and girls during disasters. “Our response strategies are gender-sensitive. We provide dignity kits, psychosocial support, and safe spaces in affected communities. We are also promoting women’s leadership in humanitarian efforts, ensuring that women are not merely recipients of aid but active decision-makers in shaping response strategies,” she added.
Chairman of the occasion and former Governor of Adamawa State, Mr. Bala Ngillari, praised the courage and achievements of women, noting that despite persistent marginalization, women have continued to make impactful contributions across all sectors.
Founder of IWAYEC and former Director General of the National Centre for Women Development, Mrs. Esther Manghza, emphasized the importance of supporting women and youth to become self-reliant and active contributors to national development. She also used the occasion to publicly unveil her two newly authored books, reinforcing her advocacy for education and empowerment.
The event convened women leaders, policymakers, youth, and civil society stakeholders who shared experiences and explored strategies for inclusive development. It also served as a platform to mentor emerging women leaders and reaffirm commitments to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all.
Signed:
Manzo Ezekiel
Head, NEMA Press Unit
31st July, 2025
