WhatsApp Image 2025-07-15 at 2.30.31 PM

Data Analysis, GIS and Visualization Training in Abuja

From Monday, July 7th to Friday, July 11th, 2025, the halls of the United Nations House in Abuja came alive with learning, collaboration, and innovation as key stakeholders in Nigeria’s disaster management and humanitarian response systems gathered for a transformative five-day training on Data Analysis, GIS, and Visualization.

The training was jointly organized by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM – UN Migration), DATA Alliance Nigeria, the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

It was an honor and privilege for the DATA Alliance to contribute to this noble capacity-building effort, one that continues to shape the future of disaster preparedness and response in Nigeria.

DATA Alliance Trainer going round to support participants

A Tradition of Impact and Innovation

Over the past four years, this annual training initiative has become a cornerstone of technical advancement within Nigeria’s disaster management community. What began as a capacity-building workshop has evolved into a platform that is directly transforming how government agencies like NEMA approach emergency response, leveraging data-driven insights to guide faster, smarter, and more coordinated decisions.

We have witnessed remarkable improvements in how NEMA handles data collection, analysis, geospatial mapping, and information visualization. This evolution has enhanced their ability to respond to emergencies, anticipate risks, and plan proactively in the face of growing humanitarian challenges from flooding and displacement to conflict-related crises.

A Group Picture of Facilitators and Organisers

Looking Ahead: Innovating for Impact

As we reflect on the outcomes of this year’s training, we are more determined than ever to keep supporting Nigeria’s emergency management effort with innovative tools and knowledge. At DATA Alliance, our mission goes beyond capacity building, we are committed to driving a culture of data use for humanitarian impact.

In the coming months, we will continue to introduce new methods, technologies, and partnerships to help NEMA and its partners deepen their operational efficiency, forecast potential threats, and enhance their life-saving interventions.

Gratitude and Collaboration

We extend our sincere appreciation to our partners, UN OCHA, NEMA, IOM, NASRDA, and IFRC for the opportunity to contribute to such a critical initiative. Together, we are proving that when data meets dedication, the results can save lives.

At DATA Alliance, we remain proud to be part of this journey, one that is shaping a more resilient, prepared, and data-smart Nigeria.

#DataForHumanity
#DisasterPreparedness
#GISforGood
#DATAAllianceNG

c1659f60-7072-11ef-a4b4-b9ea96d50be1.jpg

Borno State Government Includes DATA Alliance in Flood Response Committee

Recognizing our outstanding track record in data-driven emergency planning, the Borno State Government has formally included DATA Alliance in the newly constituted State Flood Response Committee. The inclusion marks a major endorsement of DATA Alliance’s technical expertise in humanitarian response and disaster preparedness.

This initiative comes as Borno State braces for potential flood risks linked to climate variability and environmental degradation as projected by NiMet— a growing concern in the Lake Chad Basin. The Committee, led by the Borno State Agency for the coordination of sustainable development and Humanitarian Response under the able leadership of Dr. Mairo Mandara composed of key state partners including, state MDAs, humanitarian agencies, and civil society organizations, will coordinate preparedness, response, and recovery strategies for at-risk communities.

DATA Alliance alongside the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) will provide technical support in:

  • Risk Mapping and Flood Modeling
  • Community Vulnerability Assessments
  • Real-Time Data Collection using Digital Tools
  • Impact Monitoring and Evaluation
  • Policy Advisory for Risk Reduction

“This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to supporting state-led, data-informed disaster response,” said Sulaiman Badamasi. “We aim to strengthen early warning systems, integrate local data, and empower communities to act before disaster strikes.”

The organization will also support capacity-building for local emergency response units and community volunteers, ensuring that data collection and use are embedded at every level of the response chain.

With the slogan “Empowering Decisions, Driving Impact,” DATA Alliance continues to serve as a catalyst for turning complex data into actionable strategies that protect lives and enhance resilience in vulnerable regions.