VP Shettima Applauds Starlink Donation to Strengthen NEMA’s Emergency Response Operations
VP Shettima Applauds Starlink Donation to Strengthen NEMA’s Emergency Response Operations
VP Shettima Applauds Starlink Donation to Strengthen NEMA’s Emergency Response Operations
Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended satellite internet provider Starlink for donating specialised communication equipment to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), describing the partnership as a significant boost to emergency and disaster management efforts in Nigeria.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from NEMA and SpaceX-Starlink at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Shettima said the collaboration would enhance NEMA’s response capabilities through improved communication and coordination during emergencies.
The Vice President noted that effective communication remains critical in disaster response, particularly during emergencies such as flooding and other natural disasters.
He said the partnership with Starlink would help improve response times and operational efficiency, adding that reliable communication infrastructure is essential for timely intervention and the protection of lives and property.
Shettima also assured the management of SpaceX that the donated equipment would be deployed effectively and efficiently across designated locations nationwide to support emergency management operations.
Earlier, NEMA Director-General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, expressed appreciation to Starlink for providing high-speed satellite internet equipment and data plans to support the agency’s activities.
According to her, the donation includes 91 standard and mini satellite internet kits, which will help address communication challenges often encountered in remote and underserved areas during emergency operations.
She disclosed that some of the equipment would be deployed to 50 identified disaster flashpoints across the country, while others would be used to upgrade NEMA’s command-and-control centre to strengthen coordination during emergencies.
Umar said the initiative would significantly improve the agency’s ability to respond to disasters, particularly in areas with limited telecommunications infrastructure.
Speaking on behalf of SpaceX-Starlink, Mr. Peter Kroetger commended Nigeria’s efforts in disaster preparedness and emergency management despite existing technological challenges.
He expressed confidence in NEMA’s operational framework and described the agency as well-positioned to effectively utilise the technology to improve emergency response and disaster management nationwide.
The meeting was attended by senior NEMA officials, including the Director of ICT, Mr. Justin Uwazuruonye, Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore B.A. Usman, and representatives of SpaceX, including Mary Owolabi.
The donation is expected to strengthen NEMA’s communication network and enhance its capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies across Nigeria.
VP Shettima Applauds Starlink Donation to Strengthen NEMA’s Emergency Response Operations
