ECODiN PROJECT

Project Brief: Enhancing Coordination Systems for Disaster Response in Nigeria (ECODiN)

Introduction
The "Enhancing Coordination Systems for Disaster Response in Nigeria Program (ECODiN)" is a collaborative initiative implemented by Christian Aid UK, Cooperazione Internazionale (COOPI), and Life Helpers Initiative (LHI). This program operates in three Nigerian states—Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara—across six Local Government Areas (LGAs): Charanchi, Katsina, Wamakko, Wurno, Bungudu, and Gusau.

Executive Summary

• Partners Involved: Christian Aid, COOPI, and Life Helpers Initiative, leveraging over 75 years of combined experience in program delivery.
• Program Scope: Directly targets 30,300 individuals and indirectly impacts over 2.5 million through extensive mass mobilization campaigns.
• Objective: To strengthen both formal and informal Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) institutions for effective disaster response, recovery, and resilience.

Program Goal
The program aims to build robust institutional capacity and coordination systems to address vulnerabilities, support recovery, and enhance disaster response in target states and LGAs.

Program Approach
The ECODiN program operates under a Theory of Change that prioritizes capacity building and coordination at both state and local levels to ensure timely and effective disaster response.

Key Activities by Sub-Purpose

1. Improved Coordination and Linkages
   • Facilitate multi-sectoral meetings at national and state levels for collaborative disaster management.
   • Build capacity in communication, data management, and coordination for disaster management bodies.
   • Conduct public awareness campaigns and simulation drills to improve disaster preparedness.
2. Enhanced Institutional Capacity
   • Develop contingency plans and emergency response frameworks for states and LGAs.
   • Train state disaster agencies on GIS, gender-sensitive disaster management, and safeguarding practices.
   • Establish and revitalize Disaster Management Platforms (DMPs) and Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs).
3. State-Led Response Efficiency
   • Advocate for state-specific disaster management policies and frameworks.
   • Train media professionals and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in advocacy and policy engagement.
   • Stockpile relief materials for rapid response deployment during disasters.

Geographic Focus
The program targets climate change-induced disasters, violent conflicts, and institutional gaps in Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states, addressing the vulnerabilities specific to these regions.

Challenges Addressed

• Weak community-level disaster detection systems.
• Structural inefficiencies within state emergency management agencies.
• Marginalization of vulnerable groups (women, children, and the elderly) in disaster planning.
• Limited inter-agency coordination, resources, and technical expertise.

Monitoring and Evaluation
A robust monitoring and evaluation framework is in place, utilizing baseline studies, midline and end-line evaluations, and regular data quality assessments to track and ensure program effectiveness.

Conclusion
The ECODiN program is a vital initiative designed to strengthen disaster management structures, enhance community resilience, and ensure state and local agencies are adequately prepared to mitigate and respond to disasters effectively. By addressing systemic gaps and empowering communities, the program seeks to build a sustainable and coordinated disaster response framework in Nigeria.