Lagos unveils campaign on proper use of emergency lines 767, 112

The Lagos State Command and Control Centre has unveiled a sensitisation campaign on the proper use of its emergency toll-free numbers, 767 and 112.

Speaking with journalists on Wednesday in Lagos, Mr Kennedy Giwa, the General Manager of the centre, described the initiative as part of the state government’s renewed efforts to enhance public safety.

Giwa added that the initiative would strengthen emergency response across Lagos, especially ahead of the busy Ember months.

He said the exercise became necessary as the state braces for a spike in emergencies during the festive season, particularly the ”Dirty December.”

“This is the period when most emergencies and disasters crystallise, and we record high numbers of incidents.

“It is, therefore, important for us, as a responsible government agency, to educate and conscientise Lagosians on how to effectively use the emergency numbers 767 and 112.

“These numbers are toll-free across all networks and connect callers directly to trained call agents for immediate response,” Giwa said.

He disclosed that recent public sampling showed that a surprising number of Lagos residents remain unaware of the emergency numbers, describing the finding as “astonishing.”

“Information brings about transformation.

“We must transform our communities by building resilience and enhancing citizens’ response capability during emergencies,” Giwa said.

He cautioned residents against making prank calls or misusing the emergency lines, stressing that such acts waste valuable resources and delay real emergency responses.

“We urge Lagosians to cultivate a culture of responsibility, empathy, and community safety.

Rather than taking pictures or sharing sensitive materials on social media during emergencies, citizens should act as first responders by promptly contacting emergency services,” Giwa said.

Commending the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his commitment to public safety, Giwa highlighted the significant investment made in technology and infrastructure at the Command and Control Centre.

The level of technological upgrade we have here can be compared with that of developed countries.

“Mr governor deserves commendation for his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Lagosians,” Giwa added.

He added that the centre would remain committed to building a resilient, responsive, and safety-conscious Lagos where citizens know how to act swiftly in emergencies.

He enjoined members of the public to dial 767 or 112 in case of any emergency.

He added that both numbers remain toll-free and available 24 hours a day.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, emphasised the importance of collaboration between government agencies and the public in emergency management.

Oke-Osanyintolu called on residents to play active roles in safeguarding their communities by reporting incidents swiftly through the designated channels.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that critical stakeholders involved in emergency management in the state joined in the walk, which began from the Centre to the Computer village, Ikeja.

(NAN)