EMERGENCY RESPONSE: FEMD, FRSC TO STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION ON RESCUE OPERATIONS

By: Nkechi Isa

The Director of the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Engr. Muhammad Dikko, has called for stronger collaboration between the Department and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to enhance emergency response and rescue operations across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Engr. Dikko made the call during a courtesy visit to the FRSC FCT Command, where he stressed the importance of synergy and timely information sharing among emergency response agencies in ensuring effective coordination and saving lives.

He noted that both agencies share common responsibilities in emergency management and response, adding that FEMD was ready to align with the FRSC’s programmes in line with its action plan for the last quarter of the year.

“We have a lot in common, and we are ready to key into your programmes based on our action plan for the last quarter of the year,” he said.

Responding, the Corps Commander of the FRSC FCT Command, Mr. Tijjani Iliyasu, underscored the need for sustained cooperation between the two agencies, noting that effective collaboration among emergency responders was critical to protecting lives and property.

“We must work together. When I am not there, you are there. When you require our equipment, we are ready to give it to you,” he stated.

Mr. Iliyasu also pledged to support capacity building for FEMD personnel, particularly the Department’s drivers, to improve their competence and operational efficiency during emergency response operations.

He further disclosed that the FRSC had introduced mental assessments for motorists who drive against traffic and disobey traffic lights, as part of efforts to address dangerous driving behaviour and improve road safety.

The visit provided an opportunity for both agencies to explore areas of mutual cooperation, strengthen operational relationships and promote more effective coordination in emergency response and rescue operations within the FCT.

Management staff of both agencies attended the meeting.