The Lagos State Government has inaugurated the Institute of Disaster Management at the Igando Relief Camp, a new training institution aimed at building the capacity of emergency responders and professionals across the country.
The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, announced the development on Tuesday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the three-day National SEMA Conference hosted in Lagos.
According to Oke-Osanyintolu, the institute — which will be supervised by LASEMA — will serve as a centre for professional training, research, and innovation in disaster management. It is also designed to become a symbol of growth, knowledge, and resilience in the state’s emergency response framework.
He revealed that the first cohort of trainees will be admitted in December 2025, adding that the initiative will equip responders with modern skills to manage emergencies more effectively.
Commending the participation of representatives from all 36 states and the FCT, Oke-Osanyintolu said the maiden National SEMA Conference had created a platform to chart a new course for emergency management in Nigeria.
“Over the past days, we have shared knowledge, strengthened partnerships, and built a stronger network of emergency managers across the country,” he stated.
Highlighting the event’s closing ceremony, Oke-Osanyintolu said framed portraits were presented to each State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) as a gesture of unity and shared purpose.
He noted, “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. It symbolises my respect, gratitude, and unwavering commitment to our collective mission of saving lives and property.”
The LASEMA boss expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his continued investment in emergency management infrastructure and training, as well as to all first responders and partners, including NEMA, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Eight Medical, and others for their support during the conference.
“To my entire LASEMA family, from management to field officers and logistics teams, I am deeply grateful. Your commitment and teamwork were the backbone of this success,” he added.
The maiden National SEMA Conference took place in Lagos from October 2 to October 4, 2025, bringing together stakeholders in emergency management to strengthen coordination and preparedness across Nigeria.