The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has inaugurated the National Mass Fatality Response Plan to improve disaster management in Nigeria. This initiative addresses gaps in previous disaster responses, especially concerning mass fatalities, aiming to ensure dignity for the deceased and hope for survivors. The plan prioritizes coordinated action across all levels of government, providing clear procedures and resources like body bags for respectful handling of the deceased.

The plan is designed for coordinated and efficient responses to mass fatality incidents, such as explosions, floods, building collapses, and epidemics. Developed through stakeholder engagement, it assigns responsibilities to federal, state, and local governments, ensuring unified and dignified responses. Clear protocols and standard operating procedures are established for handling mass fatalities professionally.

Mrs. Zubaida Umar, the Director General of NEMA, highlighted the importance of local government involvement as first responders and announced ongoing training for stakeholders, including the media, to ensure accurate and sensitive reporting during emergencies. This initiative marks a shift from reactive to proactive disaster management, with NEMA and its partners ready to implement the plan nationwide.

Mr. Hyginus Omeje of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) called for an emergency declaration on Nigerian roads, noting that road traffic crashes cause more fatalities than recent flooding incidents combined. In 2024, over 5,400 people died on Nigerian roads, a seven percent increase from the previous year, despite a reduction in total crashes and injuries. Dangerous practices such as scooping fuel from crashed tankers contribute to the high fatality rate. Omeje urged coordinated action and enhanced emergency preparedness to address this critical issue.

Dr. Latifa Arfaoui of the World Health Organisation (WHO) praised Nigeria's inauguration of the response plan as a critical milestone in strengthening emergency preparedness. Ms. Nourane Houas of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts in managing the humanitarian consequences of armed conflict.

The strategic plan, spanning from 2025 to 2029, represents Nigeria’s first comprehensive framework for mass fatality management and will be periodically reviewed and adapted. Asso. Prof. Chukwuemeka Nwafor from the University of Uyo explained that the plan will adopt an incident command structure, focusing on operations such as initial response, search and recovery, documentation, transportation, mortuary, and disposition operation. The mass fatality response coordinating unit will oversee all activities, including maintaining a national registry of deceased individuals.