Nigeria Moves To Make 112 Single National Emergency Number
By TOSI ORE
THE Federal Government has moved to operationalise 112 as Nigeria’s single universal toll-free emergency number.
The initiative is designed to simplify emergency reporting and improve the coordination of responses to security incidents, accidents, fires, medical crises and other life-threatening situations.
In September, the government directed relevant agencies to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the nationwide rollout of the service. The committee includes the Nigerian Communications Commission, Nigeria Police Force, National Emergency Management Agency and Federal Road Safety Corps.
Meanwhile, the NCC has already established Emergency Communications Centres to handle 112 calls. The centres serve as links between distressed callers and emergency response agencies.
Consequently, Nigerians can dial 112 free of charge from telecom networks to seek emergency assistance. Calls are processed at the appropriate emergency communications centre before being directed to the agency responsible for the incident.
The system covers responses involving agencies such as the police, FRSC, fire services, ambulance services and NEMA. It operates around the clock to provide a central channel for emergency communications.
Furthermore, the government wants the unified system to reduce delays caused by fragmented emergency contact arrangements. The broader objective is to make it easier for people in distress to reach the appropriate responders without having to identify or remember different numbers.
Authorities have therefore urged residents, motorists, transport operators and community leaders to save 112 and use it only when genuine emergencies occur.
The NCC has also warned against hoax and non-emergency calls, which can overwhelm the system and divert attention from people who genuinely need urgent assistance.
