In an effort to mitigate environmental hazards and create safer neighbourhoods, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kano State has issued a rallying cry to all parties involved.
That appeal came from Mohammed Hassan Agalama, state commandant of the corps, during his remarks commemorating the 2026 International Civil Defence Day on Thursday.
The commandant gave an address stating that the day is designated to honour the Civil Defence organisations for their roles in safeguarding vital national assets, lives, and property.
He emphasised the significance of this year’s subject, “Managing Environmental Risks for a Resilient and Sustainable Future,” highlighting the growing environmental difficulties that communities are confronted with.
He claims that climate change, desertification, erosion, flooding, fires, and collapsed buildings are still major environmental concerns that pose a threat to human safety and progress.
Taking proactive steps, having strong institutions, and working together effectively are all necessary to overcome these issues, he emphasised.
According to Agalama, the NSCDC in Kano is still dedicated to its duties of crisis response, disaster management, and safeguarding vital national assets.
In order to respond quickly to calamities and raise public knowledge about environmental safety and risk reduction, he said the corps has bolstered its Disaster Management Unit.
To be resilient, one must be well-prepared. “We are strengthening our ability to manage environmental hazards by providing specialised training, conducting simulation exercises, and forming strategic partnerships with relevant agencies,” he stated.
Environmental risk management is a shared responsibility, the commandant emphasised.
“Government agencies should not be held solely responsible for environmental risk management. The responsibility is on all of us,” he stated.
Consequently, he emphasised the importance of communities engaging in environmentally responsible practices, such as not carelessly disposing of garbage, refraining from construction near rivers, and promptly notifying the proper authorities of any environmental dangers.
Agalama also lauded the NSCDC officers’ devotion to serving the public despite hardships, stating that it embodies the essence of Civil Defence.
Furthermore, he emphasised that the command will persistently back government initiatives in Kano State that strive for ecological preservation and resilience to climate change.