As the festive season approaches, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) is intensifying its readiness, particularly in the densely populated Alimosho Local Government Area. This strategic focus underscores a critical truth: proactive emergency planning is not an administrative formality but a vital safeguard for community well-being during periods of heightened activity and travel.
Emergency Preparedness in Focus
By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, Dec. 18, 2025 (NAN) – In a decisive move to ensure public safety, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has placed all emergency response units in Alimosho Local Government Area on high alert for the yuletide period. This announcement, made during a key stakeholders’ engagement, signals a shift from routine operations to a state of enhanced vigilance, where response times and coordination are paramount.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, articulated the agency’s stance, linking it directly to the directive of the state’s Chief Incident Commander, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. “Our mandate is clear: to ensure the protection of lives and property. For this festive season, every first responder—from paramedics to firefighters and rescue operatives—is on red alert,” Oke-Osanyintolu stated. This “red alert” status typically involves increased staffing, pre-positioning of equipment, and streamlined communication protocols to bypass bureaucratic delays.
He extended a firm assurance to residents: “We are fully prepared. However, emergency management is a shared responsibility. The efficiency of our response often depends on the alertness and cooperation of the public.” This statement highlights a modern approach to disaster risk reduction that moves beyond a top-down model to a collaborative, community-engaged strategy.
The Critical Role of Grassroots Committees
A cornerstone of LASEMA’s strategy is the empowerment of local structures. Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu specifically praised the Alimosho Local Government Emergency Management Committee (LGA EMC), describing it as “vibrant, effective, and efficient.” These committees are the first line of defense. Comprising local officials, community leaders, and volunteers, they understand the unique topography, risks, and social fabric of their area. Their ability to provide immediate first response—containing a fire, managing a crowd, or administering first aid—before state-level assets arrive can mean the difference between a minor incident and a major tragedy. “They ensure rapid first response at the community level, which is a critical pillar of our state-wide framework,” he explained.
How Residents Can Activate the Response System
The public’s role is crystallized in one simple action: knowing how and when to call for help. The Permanent Secretary urgently reminded residents to use the state’s toll-free emergency numbers: 112 or 767. “Once a call is received, our teams, often in coordination with the local committee, will swing into action immediately,” he affirmed. For maximum effectiveness, callers should be prepared to give clear, concise information: the exact location (landmarks are helpful), the nature of the emergency (fire, accident, medical crisis), and any visible hazards.
Echoing this preparedness, the Executive Chairman of Alimosho Local Government, Mr. Akinpelu Johnson, detailed the tiered response model. “Our local committee is the first responder. We assess and manage the situation within our capacity. The moment an incident escalates beyond our resources—be it a major building collapse or a large-scale fire—LASEMA is instantly activated for reinforcement,” Johnson said. This layered system ensures resource efficiency and prevents overwhelming local teams with catastrophic events.
A Call for Responsible Celebration
Beyond response plans, prevention is a key theme. Chairman Johnson issued a direct appeal for moderation and legality during celebrations. He specifically warned against the use of explosive knockouts (fireworks), which are a leading cause of fires, injuries, and panic during festivities. Furthermore, he emphasized the state’s laws on street carnivals. “The state government has laws restricting unauthorized street carnivals. Anyone planning such an event must seek formal approval from the Ministry of Tourism. Alimosho will not permit unlawful street carnivals, as they often lead to traffic gridlock, public disorder, and hinder emergency access,” he cautioned.
His final advice served as a fitting summary for the season: “Residents should celebrate responsibly, peacefully, and decently. Public safety is a collective achievement.” This holistic message from both state and local authorities—combining robust institutional readiness with a clear appeal for public responsibility—aims to ensure that the joy of the yuletide in Alimosho is not marred by preventable emergencies.
(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
FBO/UNS
========
Edited by Sandra Umeh
