The Nigerian Government has unveiled a National Mass Fatality Response Plan to enhance the country’s capacity for the effective management of mass casualty events.
The plan was launched in Abuja by the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
Describing the initiative as a landmark development, Umar stated that it represents a significant step in strengthening preparedness and response systems for mass fatality incidents—one of the most sensitive and challenging aspects of emergency management.
“With this plan, we are significantly bolstering our national capacity to manage mass fatalities. It will enhance inter-agency coordination, promote transparency and accountability, and most importantly, ensure that victims are treated with dignity and their families offered solace,” she said.
Umar explained that the plan was developed through a rigorous, consultative, and evidence-based process, and sets out a clear operational framework.
“In recent years, Nigeria has experienced a growing number of mass fatality incidents arising from disasters such as explosions, floods, building collapses, epidemics, and other emergencies. These tragedies have brought immense grief to families and communities, often worsened by the absence of a coordinated and compassionate response. This plan is our collective response to change that narrative,” she said.
She added that the document establishes standard operating procedures to ensure that, even during the most chaotic periods, all involved act with dignity, professionalism, and respect for the deceased.
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“Our objective goes beyond operational efficiency; it is about preserving the humanity and identity of every life lost,” Umar noted.
The Protection Officer of the ICRC, Nourane Houas, expressed optimism that the plan would be quickly implemented to foster better preparedness, coordination, and dignity in handling mass fatalities.
“In our work across Nigeria, particularly in areas affected by armed conflict, we witness the deep humanitarian impact when the deceased are not properly identified, buried, or accounted for with dignity,” Houas said.
She emphasised that the plan is more than a policy document—it is a national commitment and a path toward restoring dignity to the dead and hope to the bereaved.
“It underscores the importance of structured, humane, and coordinated responses in the aftermath of tragedies—whether caused by conflict, disasters, or other emergencies,” she added.
Also speaking, Dr Latifat Arfaoui, representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), described the plan as a vital milestone that demonstrates a proactive and compassionate commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness and response.
“It addresses one of the most complex and sensitive areas of emergency response. The plan will improve multisectoral coordination, ensure the safety of responders, uphold public health standards, and respect cultural and religious values during fatality management,” Dr Arfaoui stated.
She reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to providing continued technical support and collaboration to ensure national and sub-national readiness for emergency situations, delivered with professionalism and respect.
