By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government, state governors, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and emergency response agencies will finalise the nationwide adoption of 112 as Nigeria’s national emergency number after a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the next steps on Tuesday to strengthen emergency response, improve coordination, and ensure Nigerians receive faster assistance during emergencies.
FG Moves to Strengthen Emergency Response System
The decision followed a meeting between a delegation from the Nigerian Communications Commission, led by its Governing Board Chairman, Chief Idris Ibikunle Olorunnimbe, and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The engagement came days after the National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by the Vice President, approved 112 as the single national emergency number for all levels of government and relevant agencies.
The initiative aims to create a unified emergency response system that meets global standards and delivers quicker assistance to citizens.
Shettima Orders Roadmap for Nationwide Implementation
Vice President Shettima directed the NCC to develop a comprehensive roadmap for implementing the 112 emergency number across Nigeria.
He also instructed the Commission to work closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), citing the agency’s experience in disaster management, emergency relief, and rehabilitation.
Furthermore, the Vice President assured stakeholders that the Federal Government would sustain the project through funding support from the National Economic Council and private sector partners.
He also urged emergency responders to demonstrate stronger commitment to ensure the initiative succeeds nationwide.
NCC Highlights Progress on Emergency Communication Centres
Earlier, Olorunnimbe updated the Vice President on the Commission’s progress toward implementing the national emergency number.
According to him, the NCC has already established about 35 Emergency Communications Centres (ECCs) across Nigeria using advanced communication technology.
He thanked the Vice President for providing leadership and for promising to engage the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to support the project.
Governors, Agencies Urged to Support the Initiative
Olorunnimbe stressed that governors must help maintain the emergency infrastructure already deployed across the country.
He also called on all emergency response agencies to fully support the initiative.
According to him, effective coordination remains essential because delayed communication could prevent citizens from receiving urgent assistance.
He specifically urged the Nigeria Police Force, ambulance services in every state, and NEMA to work together for seamless emergency response.
He described the initiative as a patriotic responsibility that will help Nigerians access emergency services quickly whenever they face danger.
Implementation Committee Already Approved
Previously, the National Economic Council approved the establishment of a multi-agency implementation committee.
The Office of the Vice President and the Nigerian Communications Commission will coordinate the committee to oversee the nationwide rollout of the 112 emergency number.
The Federal Government believes the initiative will improve public safety and create a faster, more efficient emergency response system across Nigeria.
