The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted a one-day sensitization and public awareness campaign in Katsina State to educate stakeholders and the public on the dangers posed by tanker accidents and related fire outbreaks.
The campaign began with a stakeholders’ meeting at the Old Government House conference hall, bringing together representatives from key emergency response and security agencies. The State Commandant of the Federal Fire Service, ACF A. Aliyu, delivered a technical presentation highlighting common causes of tanker-related fires and proposed collaborative strategies for prevention and response. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) emphasized safe driving and fuel transportation practices, while stakeholders expressed concern about the rising frequency of tanker incidents and called for joint action.
Speaking on behalf of NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaidah Umar, the Head of Operations for NEMA Kaduna Office, Mallam Sulaiman Muhammad, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to coordinated disaster management. He emphasized the critical role of multi-agency collaboration — involving the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Fire Service, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FRSC, and the Red Cross — in achieving effective and timely disaster response.
The second phase of the campaign focused on direct community engagement. NEMA staff, supported by NYSC corps members, visited fuel stations and tanker parks across Katsina, distributing educational materials such as posters and fliers to raise awareness about safe fuel handling and accident prevention.
Through this initiative, NEMA reaffirms its ongoing commitment to safeguarding lives and properties by promoting a culture of safety, collaboration, and proactive disaster risk reduction.
(19 June 2025)
