NEMA Operations Office, Kaduna paid a courtesy and working visit to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) at the Rigasa Railway Station, Kaduna, to strengthen existing collaboration and enhance emergency preparedness and response mechanisms.
The visit, led by the new Head of Operations, *Hajiya Halima D. Suleiman* , also provided an opportunity to formally introduce herself to the management of the NRC and discuss areas of mutual interest aimed at improving coordination during emergencies and disasters within the railway sector.
Speaking during the visit, the Head of Operations calls for closer collaboration between the organizations, noting that the occurrence of derailment and other train related accidents and emergencies makes synergy between NEMA and the NRC essential.
She stressed the importance of timely information sharing to enable NEMA respond promptly whenever the railway corporation experiences any form of emergency or distress situation.
The Head of Operations further mentioned importance of capacity development on emergency response among railway station personnel during railway incidents.
According to her, such training most especially in basic first aid will shape and improve the preparedness of the railway staff and also enhance the overall safety of passengers and railway operations.
On his part, the Station Manager of the Rigasa Railway Station, Kaduna *Mr. Kabiru Yakubu,* warmly welcomed the NEMA delegation and expressed appreciation for the visit.
He commended the Agency for its humanitarian and emergency response efforts, recalling an incident in which he was involved and NEMA personnel were among the first responders who assisted in saving lives and providing support.
He then described the proposed training and simulation exercises as timely and beneficial, assuring the NEMA team of the corporation's readiness to collaborate and work closely with the Agency.
He expressed optimism about future engagements and partnerships aimed at strengthening emergency management and safety within the railway sector.
The visiting NEMA delegation was conducted round the NRC facilities and operational equipment, where they were briefed on the corporation's operations and inspected key facilities and equipment.
At the end, both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining a productive partnership geared towards safeguarding lives, property, and cr
itical infrastructure.
