A call has been made for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to urgently launch a toll-free emergency line to aid in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.
This was one of the resolutions made by stakeholders that participated in the just-concluded workshop organised by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) with the theme “Experience Sharing Exercise with Stakeholders on Mass Casualty Handling in Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) Incident”.
According to the communiqué issued after the one-day event held in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, participants noted that with a three-digit toll free emergency line, Nigerians will be able to report emergencies and cases of insecurity.
This, they said, would help security officers to swiftly respond to such distress calls.
Participants also stressed the need for the various stakeholders to share information that could help safeguard the nation. They noted that information is still needed on how to handle IEDs.
They also advised NEMA to intensify its efforts on public awareness, especially on security since it is a collective task of all.
Another issue raised in the communiqué is the need for regular inter-professional interactions through periodic forums, meetings and workshops.
They also advised NEMA to procure technological solutions and equipment such as helicopter, cranes and several others in order to quickly handle emergencies.
Participants at the one-day workshop included representatives from the military and paramilitary, medical professionals and several other professionals.
