EMERGENCY RESPONSE: FEMD DIRECTOR STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF INFORMATION SHARING, INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION
By: Nkechi Isa
The Director of the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Engr. Muhammad Dikko, has emphasised the importance of timely information sharing and effective collaboration among emergency responders to enhance emergency management and response in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Engr. Dikko stated this when he received the management team of the FCT Fire Service, led by its Acting Director, Engr. Adeshina Abioye, during a courtesy visit to FEMD.
The FEMD Director stressed that prompt dissemination of information on emergencies was essential to ensuring coordinated response operations, particularly in the evacuation of victims and the delivery of timely assistance to affected persons.
“You must disseminate information on emergencies to us promptly to enable us to work together effectively, particularly in the evacuation of victims,” he said.
He urged the FCT Fire Service to adopt a proactive approach to emergency management by prioritising prevention, public enlightenment and preparedness rather than relying solely on reactive measures.
Engr. Dikko also called for sustained public sensitisation on the dangers of bush burning, especially during the dry season, noting that increased awareness among residents would help prevent avoidable fire outbreaks and other emergencies.
“We must begin to sensitise and enlighten FCT residents on the dangers of bush burning, particularly during the dry season,” he said.
Earlier, the Acting Director of the FCT Fire Service, Engr. Adeshina Abioye, called for stronger synergy between the two agencies to improve emergency preparedness, response and management across the Territory.
Engr. Abioye disclosed that the current management of the Fire Service, which assumed office on October 2, 2026, had embarked on efforts to strengthen institutional relationships and improve operational coverage.
He explained that the FCT had been divided into two operational zones—the Abuja metropolitan area and the Area Councils—to facilitate faster response to fire incidents and other emergencies.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at improving response time and ensuring that emergency services are more accessible to residents across the FCT.
The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both agencies to strengthening inter-agency cooperation, improving information flow and promoting proactive measures to safeguard lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory.
