GOMBE- The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called for collective efforts to prevent petrol tanker fire incidents across Nigeria, citing the significant loss of lives and property.
Speaking at a one-day workshop in Gombe on Tuesday, NEMA’s Head of Operations, Hajiya Ummunah Ahmed, said the event aimed to raise awareness on the dangers of petrol tanker fires and promote safety precautions.
The workshop, themed “Combating Fire Risk Associated with Petrol Tanker Accidents through Awareness Creation,” brought together key stakeholders.
Ahmed emphasised the agency’s collaboration with partners under the leadership of Director General Mrs Zubaida Umar to address the recurring problem.
She urged intensified grassroots awareness and warned against the dangerous practice of scooping spilled fuel at accident scenes, which often led to fatalities.
Mr Edoghanya Matthew of the Federal Fire Service urged tanker drivers to ensure regular vehicle maintenance, participate in ongoing training, and equip themselves with necessary safety tools.
He presented a paper titled “Mitigating Petrol Tanker Fire Outbreaks in Nigeria.”
DSP Buhari Abdullahi, spokesperson for the Gombe State Police Command, urged the public to prioritise safety over recording videos or looting during tanker accidents.
Mr Musa Yunusa, Secretary of the Gombe branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), commended NEMA’s initiative and pledged to cascade the training to members.
He also called on security operatives to avoid harassing tanker drivers, stressing the need for their mental well-being.
Participants included representatives from the Federal and State Fire Services, the Nigerian Red Cross, Gombe State Emergency Management Agency, NURTW, and Petrol Tanker Drivers.(NAN)
