On Wednesday during the house of Reps plenary session, a motion titled “Call to improve Nigeria’s emergency response and management’ was moved by the Member representing Bogoro/Dass/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency, Bauchi State, Honourable, Leko Jafaru Gambo during which the National Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Roads Safety Commission, the Federal Fire Service and other emergency management agencies were ordered to improve their response during emergencies.
Leading the debate, Honourable Leko Jafaru said “The house is aware that Nigeria has faced a series of emergency situations, most recently, the devastating explosion which occurred in Ibadan on the 16 January 2024, which has highlighted the need for a robust and coordinated emergency response system.
“The House is 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 emergency situations.
“The House is also worried that there is a lack of public awareness and education on emergency preparedness and response that empower citizens to play an active role in their own 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 urged the Federal Government to “prevail on relevant emergency agencies like NEMA, FRSC and the Federal Fire Service, to establish clear protocols and communication systems for timely and effective information sharing during emergencies.”
” 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.”
In conclusion, the Federal House of Representatives has mandated the Committees on Emergency and Disaster Management, Interior, Federal Road Safety Commission to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.