NCC Adopts Rollout Of National Emergency Number 112 As NEC Grants Approval
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has strengthened its efforts to commence the implementation of Nigeria’s planned 112 national emergency number following its recent approval by the National Economic Council (NEC).
The development was disclosed by the Chairman of its Governing Board, Chief Idris Ibikunle Olorunnimbe when he led a delegation from the NCC during a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, with the Vice President Kashim Shettima
Olorunnimbe disclosed that the Commission has already established about 35 Emergency Communications Centres (ECCs) nationwide as part of the infrastructure required to support the unified emergency response system.
According to him, the next phase of implementation would focus on deepening collaboration with state governments and emergency response agencies to ensure the seamless deployment and effectiveness of the emergency number.
Olorunnimbe also said that the success of the initiative now depends on stronger collaboration with state governments, which will be expected to support and maintain the emergency communications infrastructure, and the commitment of emergency response agencies to ensure that distress calls receive prompt attention.
The NCC Board Chairman said; “We need commitment at every level of all response agencies from top to bottom, including the Nigeria Police Force, ambulance services across the states and, at the national level, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)”
The initiative follows the NEC’s decision, under the chairmanship of Vice President Shettima, to adopt 112 as the sole emergency contact number for all levels of government and emergency response institutions nationwide. The council also approved the establishment of a multi-agency implementation committee to be jointly coordinated by the Office of the Vice President and the NCC.
In his response, Vice President Shettima directed the NCC to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the nationwide rollout of the emergency number in line with international best practices.
He urged the Commission to strengthen collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), due to the agency’s vast experience in disaster management, emergency response, relief operations and rehabilitation.
The Vice President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the initiative, while assuring the stakeholders that funding support would be mobilised through the National Economic Council and strategic private-sector partnerships.
Shettima also called on all emergency response agencies to demonstrate greater dedication and professionalism to guarantee the success of the programme.
The adoption of 112 is expected to harmonise emergency communications nationwide by providing a single number through which Nigerians can quickly access the police, Fire service, ambulance and other critical emergency services.
The initiative is also expected to replace the multiple emergency lines currently in operation, improve inter-agency coordination and enhance response times during emergencies and disasters nationwide.