The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has rolled out a comprehensive fire sensitization campaign to combat fire outbreaks during the harmattan season. Targeting tanker drivers, market associations, local businesses, and grassroots volunteers, the initiative seeks to reduce fire risks through training, stakeholder engagement, and community empowerment. The campaign is implemented in collaboration with Federal and State Fire Services.
NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, stressed the urgency of the campaign, noting the heightened risk of fire incidents during harmattan. A core component of the initiative is the training of Emergency Management Volunteers (EMVs) at the grassroots level. These volunteers will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and manage fire emergencies, strengthening community resilience.
Tanker drivers will receive specialized training on fire safety practices and emergency response techniques to address rising incidents involving fuel transportation. Similarly, market leaders and local businesses will be educated on fire prevention measures, while the agency promotes disaster preparedness and response across communities.
Mrs. Umar emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in preventing fire disasters, urging stakeholders to adhere to safety protocols and warnings. She described the campaign as a reflection of NEMA’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and livelihoods, while fostering a culture of disaster prevention and community resilience.
