Lambata: The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated a campaign to educate residents in Niger about the hazards associated with fuel and fire accidents. The campaign was launched in Lambata, located in Gurara Local Government, and aims to increase awareness of the risks linked to fuel tanker accidents.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, emphasized the importance of preparedness and prevention over response and recovery during the launch. Represented by Dr. Zainab Ndanusa, Head of the Disaster Risk Reduction Unit at NEMA Minna Operations Office, Umar noted that the agency is taking proactive steps to engage transport sector stakeholders in mitigating these risks. The campaign is intended as a life-saving initiative, driven by concerns over the increasing frequency of fuel tanker accidents on highways and in communities.
Umar further explained that fuel tanker accidents have led to the loss of numerous lives and devastating fire incidents that leave lasting sorrow. Many victims of these accidents were breadwinners and promising members of society. She appealed to tanker drivers and petroleum transport companies to prioritize safety measures and avoid risky behaviors such as reckless driving, excessive speed, and poor vehicle maintenance.
She highlighted that a single mistake in such situations could result in massive loss of life and property damage worth millions of Naira. The public was urged to stay away from fallen tankers and refrain from attempting to collect spilled fuel. Complementing these remarks, Abdulsalam Zumba, Director of Risk Reduction at the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), advised motorists, especially those driving articulated vehicles, to practice safe driving habits.
Ibrahim Mohammed, Chief of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) for Petroleum Tanker Drivers at NUPENG, reiterated the association’s ongoing advice to its members to avoid speeding and ensure they are well-rested before starting any journey.