By Sandra Kenneth
The Federal Government has initiated steps toward a unified national emergency response mechanism, directing relevant stakeholders to establish a comprehensive operational roadmap for the nationwide rollout of the 112 toll-free emergency number.
To drive the implementation, a multi-agency committee has been constituted, drawing representatives from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and other key responders. The committee is charged with finalizing standard operating procedures for formal endorsement by the National Economic Council (NEC).
The development was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President).
The initiative follows a recent approval by the NEC designating 112 as Nigeria’s single universal emergency line. The move aims to replace fragmented, agency-specific numbers, eliminate administrative delays, and streamline public access to assistance during medical crises, fires, accidents, and security threats.
Speaking at the National Emergency Number 112 Project stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima urged the committee to align its framework with global best practices and move swiftly toward deployment.
“Let’s make progress so that whatever time we have spent here is worth spending. Most importantly, the engine is finance — resources to drive the process. I want to assure you that we will get the resources,” Shettima stated, guaranteeing federal funding support as operational milestones are met.
Highlighting the operational necessity of the rollout, Inspector General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu pledged the full backing of the NPF. He noted that during distress situations—such as armed robberies, fire outbreaks, or kidnappings—citizens previously faced confusion determining which specific agency to dial. A single toll-free line, he emphasized, ensures immediate routing to the appropriate response units.
Lydia Aina, Personal Assistant to the President on e-Governance, explained that current emergency handling remains decentralized across various state jurisdictions and independent bodies. The transition focuses on establishing a central framework, starting with six immediate priority areas led by clear governance structures.
Head of participating organizations, including NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar, FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, and National Orientation Agency (NOA) Director-General Lanre Issa-Onilu, also affirmed their commitments to the seamless integration of the national emergency system.
