NEMA Holds Simulation, Awareness Campaign On Fuel Accidents, Fire Outbreaks In Kaduna
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Kaduna Operations Office, on Wednesday, conducted a simulation exercise and public awareness campaign on fuel-related accidents and fire outbreaks.
The Head of Operations, Mr Suleiman Muhammad, said the exercise aimed to enhance preparedness and strengthen inter-agency collaboration in responding to fuel tanker accidents and fire disasters.
Muhammad told newsmen that the event brought together key stakeholders, including the Federal and State Fire Services, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Authority (KASTLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Police, and the Red Cross.
“One of NEMA’s core responsibilities is to mobilise stakeholders, and you can see all the relevant agencies participating today. Disaster management requires strong collaboration,” he said.
He recalled past incidents in Dikko junction, Niger state and other parts of the country where tanker explosions claimed many lives, saying such tragedies could be avoided through proactive measures and joint response.
“In Angwan Romi here, because of the synergy among stakeholders, we’ve been able to curtail potential disasters. Collaboration remains the most effective approach to disaster prevention and response,” he added.
Also speaking, Mr Charles Abuul, Deputy Commander of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), warned youths against drug use, especially while driving.
“Accidents don’t only happen on the road or during floods. Domestic, industrial, and road accidents are all forms of disaster. Drivers under the influence of stimulants are more likely to lose focus and cause crashes,” Abdul said.
He urged drivers, particularly trailer drivers, to imbibe lessons from the simulation and always remain alert and drug-free behind the wheel.
On his part, Mr James Ezekiel, Manager of the Trailer Park for Remote Resources, described the awareness campaign as timely and beneficial.
“Most trucks that come into this park are laden with petrol. Any slight ignition can lead to fire outbreaks and loss of lives and property. This exercise has opened our eyes to quick response measures, especially on how to use extinguishers and respond to emergencies,” Ezekiel said.
He said the management had installed fire points across the park, but some had been vandalised. He called for support to refurbish and maintain the facilities.
Ezekiel also appealed to the Kaduna State Government and the Fire Service to station a fire truck in the area to reduce response time in case of emergencies.
“From Maraban Jos to Zaria, there is no stationed fire truck. In case of fire, it takes up to 30 minutes to get a truck from Kaduna. By then, the damage would have been done. We are open and willing to host a fire truck here to protect lives and property,” he added.
The event featured live demonstrations on handling fuel spills, fire suppression, and rescue operations.