By Rasheeda Yahaya
The House of Representatives has moved a motion seeking the ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies and disasters in critical aspects towards ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of the Nigerian population;
The house during a plenary session on Wednesday 21st February notes that a well-structured and efficient emergency response and management system is essential for minimizing the impact of emergencies.
Mover of the motion Hon. Jafaru Gambo Leko lawmaker from Bauchi State noted that Nigeria has faced a series of emergencies, most recently, the devastating explosion which occurred in Ibadan on 16 January 2024, which has highlighted the need for a robust and coordinated emergency response system;
Hon. Jafaru worried that in some instances where emergency response systems are available, lack of access roads and other environmental or logistic challenges have impeded timely response to emergencies;
Also worried that there is a lack of awareness and education on emergency preparedness and response that empower citizens to play an active role in their safety. A good percentage of Nigerians do not know, for example, the Fire Service Control Room number, where it is available;
Cognizant that it is imperative to improve the capacity and resources dedicated to Nigeria’s emergency response, to ensure a more effective and efficient response to emergencies;
The house Resolves to urge the Federal Government to prioritize the strengthening and modernization of Nigeria’s emergency response infrastructure, including the establishment of state-of-the-art emergency
operation centres, and the purchase of sufficient fire trucks and emergency management ambulances to efficiently serve the Nigerian populace; and
also urge relevant emergency agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency, Federal Fire Service, and the Federal Road Safety Corps to establish clear Protocols and Communication Systems for timely and effective information sharing during emergencies.
Amending the motion, Hon. Shagaya and other members requested that the NCC, telecommunications and security agencies, Nigerian fire service and other relevant authorities to make available their phone numbers/Hotlines to Nigerians so that they can be reached in terms of emergency
Hon. Shagaya, further suggest that all the emergency numbers should be placed in Hotel rooms and other public places for easy access.
The house then adopted the motion, mandates the Committees on Emergency and Disaster Management, Interior, and Federal Road Safety Commission to ensure compliance and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
