Kaduna: The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Wednesday conducted a simulation and public awareness campaign on fuel-related accidents and fire outbreaks in Kaduna. Suleiman Muhammad, Head of Operations at NEMA’s Kaduna Office, said the exercise was to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and enhance emergency preparedness in the event of tanker explosions and fire disasters.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the exercise took place at the Trailer Park in Maraban Jos, involving stakeholders such as the fire service, FRSC, SEMA, NSCDC, KASTLEA, the Police, and the Red Cross. Muhammad emphasized the importance of collaboration in disaster management, highlighting the collective efforts demonstrated during the event. He noted that numerous lives had been lost in petroleum tanker explosions across the country, underscoring the need for proactive and joint response efforts.

Mr. Charles Abuul, Deputy Commander of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), also addressed the participants, cautioning trailer drivers against drug use. Abuul explained that narcotics impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents, urging drivers to apply the knowledge gained from the simulation and remain alert and drug-free while driving.

Mr. James Ezekiel, Manager of the Trailer Park, described the event as timely and essential for raising awareness on quick-response measures, such as the use of fire extinguishers. He appealed to the state government to provide a fire truck in the area, expressing concerns about the potential consequences of its absence during a fire incident.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the exercise included live demonstrations on emergency response to fuel spills and fire outbreaks, showcasing the critical skills needed to manage such emergencies effectively.