The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibadan Operations Office, held a one-day awareness campaign and sensitization program on tanker accidents and fire in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. The event aimed to engage stakeholders and the public on effective ways to manage and prevent tanker-related disasters.Held at the Akinyele LGA Secretariat, the program brought together key players in disaster management for discussions on addressing the growing menace. The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by Head of Operations Mr. Kadiri Olanrewaju, emphasized the importance of public enlightenment, maintaining safety distances during emergencies, and ensuring proper vehicle checks before travel to prevent human-induced disasters.Hon. Akinwole Akinleye, Chairman of Akinyele LGA, commended NEMA for the initiative, urging collective efforts to tackle the issue. Mrs. Ojuolape Busari, Secretary to Oyo State SEMA, advised tanker driver associations to promote safe driving practices among their members.Other stakeholders highlighted the need for thorough vehicle inspections, avoidance of alcohol while driving, and strict adherence to traffic regulations. They also warned the public against scooping fuel at accident scenes, which often leads to fire outbreaks.The event recorded a large turnout and featured enlightening lectures from representatives of the Nigeria Red Cross, Nigeria Police Force, FRSC, and the State Fire Service. Participants included members of NEMA, SEMA, Tanker Drivers’ Union, Park Management System, NSCDC, DSS, local government officials, market women, vigilante groups, and media representatives.
