BREAKING: NEMA embarks on nationwide fire awareness campaign

The National Emergency Management Agency has launched a nationwide fire awareness and sensitisation campaign in the country to reduce the risk of fire outbreaks during the harmattan season.

The initiative aims to engage stakeholders and empower communities with preventive measures and response strategies.

The campaign, implemented through NEMA’s Zonal Territorial and Operations Offices, is being conducted in collaboration with the Federal and State Fire Services, according to a press statement from the agency on Sunday.

“A key component of the initiative is the training of Emergency Management Volunteers at the grassroots level. These volunteers will be equipped with practical knowledge and skills to prevent and manage fire emergencies, addressing the increasing prevalence of fire incidents during the dry harmattan period.

“Recognising the rising cases of tanker fires, NEMA is also focusing special attention on tanker drivers and related stakeholders. Through targeted sensitisation programmes, these drivers will receive essential training on fire safety, including preventive practices and emergency response techniques.

“Additionally, the campaign extends to market associations, local businesses, and other stakeholders, fostering widespread adoption of fire prevention measures,” the statement said.

Speaking about the campaign, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, highlighted the urgency of proactive measures during the harmattan season, which often poses heightened fire risks.

She emphasised that the campaign aims to promote a culture of disaster prevention to protect lives, property, and livelihoods.

She said the nationwide sensitisation effort is a reflection of the commitment by NEMA to empower communities and work collaboratively with critical stakeholders such as tanker drivers, market leaders, and grassroots volunteers.

The DG NEMA also underscored the importance of collective responsibility in adhering to disaster warnings, preparations, and response mechanisms to mitigate the loss of lives and property.