In a significant stride toward bolstering disaster preparedness and response across Nigeria, the Lagos State Government has officially inaugurated the Institute of Disaster Management at the Igando Relief Camp. This landmark initiative, announced by Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), marks a pivotal moment in the state's commitment to enhancing emergency management capabilities. The announcement was made during a press briefing on Tuesday, where Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted the successes of the recently concluded three-day National State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Conference hosted in Lagos from October 2 to October 4, 2025.
The newly established Institute of Disaster Management, to be overseen by LASEMA, is poised to become a cornerstone in the training and development of disaster management professionals and first responders across Nigeria. Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu emphasized that the institute will serve as a national hub for equipping responders with the critical skills and knowledge required to effectively manage and mitigate disasters. "This institute will be a training ground for professionals and responders across the country," he stated, underscoring its role in fostering a new generation of emergency management experts. The institute is set to welcome its first cohort of trainees in December 2025, marking the beginning of a transformative journey in disaster response education.
Beyond its practical function, the Institute of Disaster Management is envisioned as a symbol of growth, knowledge, and resilience. Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted its broader significance, noting that it represents Lagos State's dedication to building a safer and more resilient society. By providing specialized training, the institute aims to empower responders with the tools and expertise needed to handle a wide range of emergencies, from natural disasters to man-made crises. This initiative aligns with the state’s proactive approach to emergency management, which has positioned Lagos as a leader in disaster preparedness in Nigeria.
The press briefing also served as an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the maiden National SEMA Conference, a historic gathering that brought together emergency management leaders from all 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Oke-Osanyintolu commended the resilience and commitment of SEMA leadership nationwide, expressing gratitude for their participation in the conference. He described the event as a platform for charting a new course for emergency management in Nigeria, with the goal of shaping a safer future for all citizens. "Over the past days, we have shared knowledge, strengthened partnerships, and built a stronger network of emergency managers across Nigeria," he remarked, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defined the conference.
A key highlight of the conference was its closing ceremony, during which framed portraits were presented to each State Emergency Management Agency. This gesture, according to Oke-Osanyintolu, symbolized unity and a shared sense of purpose among the nation’s emergency management community. He personally signed each frame, adding a deeply personal touch to the memento. "That signature is more than ink; it is a personal reminder that you carry a part of me, one that cannot be replicated or made by anyone else," he explained. The signatures, he added, were a testament to the true collaboration and teamwork that underpinned the success of the conference. They also served as a symbol of his respect, gratitude, and unwavering commitment to the collective mission of safeguarding lives and property across Nigerian communities.
The establishment of the Institute of Disaster Management and the success of the National SEMA Conference are part of a broader vision championed by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Oke-Osanyintolu expressed profound appreciation for the governor’s steadfast support and investment in emergency management initiatives. He noted that Sanwo-Olu’s leadership has been instrumental in positioning Lagos as a model for disaster preparedness and response. The governor’s commitment to equipping LASEMA with the necessary resources and infrastructure has enabled the agency to undertake ambitious projects like the Institute of Disaster Management, which is expected to have a far-reaching impact beyond the state’s borders.
In addition to acknowledging the governor’s contributions, Oke-Osanyintolu extended his gratitude to the first responders in Lagos, whose sacrifice and selflessness have been the backbone of the state’s emergency management efforts. He praised their unwavering dedication, noting that their tireless work often goes unrecognized but is critical to saving lives and protecting communities. The Permanent Secretary also recognized the invaluable support of partner organizations, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Eight Medical, and others. These partners, he said, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the three-day conference by aligning with LASEMA’s vision and providing critical support at every stage.
The LASEMA chief also took a moment to celebrate the agency’s internal team, from management to field officers, logistics teams, drivers, and every staff member who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. "Your commitment and teamwork were the backbone of this success," he said, emphasizing the collective effort that made both the conference and the launch of the Institute of Disaster Management possible. He described the achievements as a testament to what true collaboration and resilience can accomplish, urging all stakeholders to continue working together to build a safer and more prepared Nigeria.
The National SEMA Conference, held from October 2 to October 4, 2025, was a landmark event that not only facilitated knowledge-sharing but also fostered stronger partnerships among emergency management agencies across the country. The conference provided a platform for discussing emerging challenges in disaster management, exploring innovative solutions, and building a robust network of professionals dedicated to protecting Nigerian communities. By hosting this event, Lagos State has reinforced its position as a leader in emergency management, setting a high standard for other states to emulate.
The inauguration of the Institute of Disaster Management is a forward-thinking step that reflects Lagos State’s proactive approach to addressing the growing complexities of disaster management. As climate change, urbanization, and other factors increase the frequency and severity of disasters, the need for well-trained responders and robust emergency management systems has never been greater. The institute is expected to play a critical role in meeting this need by offering cutting-edge training programs tailored to the unique challenges of disaster response in Nigeria and beyond.
Looking ahead, the Institute of Disaster Management is poised to become a beacon of excellence in emergency management education. Its establishment underscores Lagos State’s commitment to not only addressing immediate disaster response needs but also investing in long-term capacity building. By training professionals and responders from across the country, the institute will contribute to a more coordinated and effective national disaster management framework. This, in turn, will enhance Nigeria’s resilience to disasters and ensure that communities are better equipped to recover from crises.
The launch of the institute and the success of the National SEMA Conference are milestones that reflect the power of collaboration, innovation, and leadership in emergency management. As Lagos State continues to lead by example, the ripple effects of these initiatives are likely to be felt across Nigeria, inspiring other states to invest in similar programs and fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience. With the first cohort of trainees set to begin their journey at the Institute of Disaster Management in December 2025, the future of emergency management in Nigeria looks promising. Through continued partnership, dedication, and a shared commitment to saving lives and protecting communities, Lagos State is paving the way for a safer and more resilient nation.
