The Nigerian government has officially introduced the National Mass Fatality Response Plan, a strategic framework aimed at enhancing the country’s preparedness and coordination in managing mass fatality incidents. The initiative, spearheaded by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), was launched in Abuja by NEMA Director General, Zubaida Umar.
Describing the plan as a landmark development, Umar emphasised its significance in tackling one of the most challenging aspects of emergency management.
“With this plan, we are significantly strengthening our national capacity to manage mass fatalities. It will improve inter-agency coordination, promote transparency and accountability, and most importantly, restore dignity to victims and comfort to their families,” she stated.
She explained that the plan was formulated through a rigorous and evidence-based consultative process and provides a clear, actionable framework. Recent years, she said, have seen an increase in tragedies such as explosions, epidemics, building collapses, and natural disasters, all of which have caused mass casualties. Umar highlighted that the pain from such events is often intensified by the lack of a coherent and compassionate response. “This Response Plan is a product of our collective resolve to change that narrative,” she said.
Umar also pointed out that the plan includes standard operating procedures to ensure that all actions during mass fatality incidents are conducted with professionalism and humanity. “Our aim is not only operational efficiency but also to uphold the humanity and identity of every life lost,” she added.
Speaking at the event, Nourane Houas, Protection Officer for the ICRC, expressed optimism that the plan would be swiftly implemented to strengthen the national response to large-scale fatalities. She stressed the devastating consequences of unidentified or unaccounted-for victims, especially in regions affected by armed conflict. “This plan is not just a policy; it’s a national commitment and pathway to restoring dignity to the dead and hope to the living,” she said.
Also present was Dr Latifat Arfaoui, representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), who described the plan as a vital step forward. She noted that it provides a compassionate and structured approach to one of the most sensitive areas of emergency response. “The plan will serve as a vital tool to enhance multi-sectoral coordination, ensure the safety of responders, uphold public health standards and honour the cultural and religious considerations during the fatality management,” she remarked.
Dr Arfaoui reaffirmed WHO’s support, pledging continued technical assistance to ensure preparedness at both national and sub-national levels, so that all responses are delivered with dignity and professionalism.
