By Chuks Nzeh
A Nigerian non-governmental organization, Bridge That Gap Hope for Africa Initiative, was recognized for its outstanding work at the recently concluded 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, hosted by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, UNDRR, in Geneva, Switzerland.
The high-level conference, held from June 2 to 6, 2025, under the theme “Every Day Counts: Act for Resilience Today,” brought together global stakeholders committed to building more resilient communities in the face of increasing disaster risks.
Speaking at the event, Executive Director of the Disaster Accountability Project, Mr. Ben Smilowitz, emphasized the importance of supporting grassroots NGOs.
He noted that his organization’s platform, smartresponse.org, ensures that disaster-related funds and resources reach local organizations, which are often the most effective on the ground.
“In Nigeria, we’ve identified about 30 NGOs doing meaningful work, and Bridge That Gap Hope for Africa Initiative has demonstrated remarkable capacity. They are now accredited to access funding for disaster management,” Smilowitz stated.
He added that his organization works with over 900 NGOs across 70 countries, vetting them to ensure donor funds directly benefit affected communities.
On her part, the Executive Director of the Kaduna-based Bridge That Gap, Gloria Bulus, who participated in several panel discussions during the conference, highlighted the NGO’s work in strengthening early warning and response systems in vulnerable communities across Kaduna State.
“At Bridge That Gap, our core mission is to support frontline victims and responders. We advocate for improved disaster-related policies and have contributed to hazard mapping, risk profiling, and the development of early warning systems,” she said.
Bulus noted that the group’s efforts have played a key role in the development of the Kaduna State Risk Map and the review of the state’s Contingency Plan in collaboration with the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA.
Beyond technical interventions, the organization engages in extensive public sensitization campaigns through community meetings, school outreach programs, and media partnerships with radio and television stations.
It also works closely with traditional and religious leaders to enhance local understanding and preparedness for disasters.
“Our interventions also include community-based disaster risk reduction and advocacy for climate resilience. We empower vulnerable populations with tools and knowledge to respond to crises and adapt to environmental changes,” Bulus added.
However, she pointed out significant challenges, including limited engagement from government and policymakers, lack of inclusive policies, and difficulties in accessing sustainable funding.
She also lamented the low interest from international NGOs in disaster-specific interventions and weak collaboration among local NGOs and community-based organizations.
“Awareness among local communities remains low, hindered by misinformation and lack of education. Yet we remain committed to promoting climate justice, gender inclusion, and sustainable environmental practices.
“Our work is driven by a deep passion to close the gaps in disaster response and climate action, ensuring no community is left behind,” she said.
