On the 12th December 2024, ASATTAHIR International Foundation (AIF) conducted a Stakeholders’ Engagement for the Implementation of its Research Recommendations on Fire Disaster preparedness and Response in Sokoto State
The meeting which was moderated by AIF’s Head of Access and Safety Department, Dr. Garba Ibrahim, was held at the conference hall of Sokoto state Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and was well attended by high profile stakeholders from the state and federal governments’ MDAs, international organizations, disaster management experts and the private sector. The engagement was a follow-up to the research conducted and disseminated by AIF to address the growing concerns of fire outbreaks in Sokoto state, with the intention of translating research findings into practical solutions.
In his opening remarks, the AIF’s Executive Secretary Prof. Yahaya Tanko Baba while welcoming participants to the meeting, highlighted the importance of addressing the increasing fire incidents in Sokoto state and emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to effectively implement the proposed recommendations of the research. The remarks underscored the Foundation’s commitment to supporting efforts that prioritize public safety and disaster management at all levels.
In his speech, the Founder of ASATTAHIR International Foundation (AIF) Aliyu Sidi Attahiru applauded the stakeholders’ commitment and thanked them for their attendance despite their busy schedules. He noted that the frequency of fire incidents in the state had become a thing of serious concern, with devastating impacts on property, livelihoods, and lives. He noted that the primary aim of the meeting was to chart a course towards the implementation of the nine-month long research recommendations conducted by the Foundation that would help reduce these incidents and build a safer and more resilient state.
He noted that the meeting sought to capitalize on the wealth of experience and knowledge of the stakeholders who are also decision makers at different levels. He expressed hope that the recommendations made would translate into tangible, actionable outcomes. He acknowledged that while the task ahead is challenging, it is achievable with collective efforts and dedication.
In their goodwill messages dignitaries from the Federal and State Fire service, NSCDC, NEMA, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, SEMA, ministries of Women Affairs, Humanitarian Affairs, Budget and Economic Planning NOA, LECAN and KEDCO etc. commended AIF for conducting the research, describing it as timely. They expressed commitment to supporting fire prevention efforts in the state.
Presenting the key findings and recommendations of the research, AIF’s Head of Programs & Research Rufus Yagkong, highlighted that the research presented recommendations across six pillars; awareness raising campaigns on fire safety, infrastructure and procurement of fire-fighting equipment, town planning, enforcement of compliance on fire safety, recruitment, retention and training of personnels as well as funding & budgeting.
As a road map for the implementation of the research recommendations, the stakeholders called for streamlining these strategic recommendations which reflects a holistic approach to fire prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery.
The meeting emphasized the need for continuous and aggressive fire safety awareness campaigns across the state. Engaging local communities, schools, religious leaders, and market associations in promoting fire safety knowledge was seen as crucial for preventing incidents. Public education on fire prevention, including the safe use of electrical appliances and handling of flammable materials, was highlighted as a key area of focus.
The improvement of firefighting infrastructure is essential to mitigate the impact of fire outbreaks. This includes upgrading firefighting equipment, ensuring water supply points are strategically located, and procuring modern fire engines (including mini fire trucks) and tools that can be quickly deployed during emergencies. Investment in in fire hydrants and fire stations in densely populated and high-risk areas, including markets and industrial zones, was also recommended.
The need for proper town planning, particularly in markets, residential areas, and public spaces, was highlighted by the stakeholders as a significant preventative measure was also emphasized. Ensuring that urban planning considers fire risks by incorporating adequate access routes for firefighting vehicles and services was also recommended.
The stakeholders also called for the domestication and implementation of the National Fire Safety Code (NFSC). Strict enforcement of fire safety regulations in both public and private buildings was identified as a critical step in reducing fire risks. Regular inspections and monitoring of high-risk areas, such as markets and commercial buildings was encouraged.
Similarly, strengthening the human resource capacity of the state’s fire services was seen as essential for improving fire response. This includes recruiting more personnel, establishment of community watch groups, providing regular and specialized training, and offering attractive packages to retain skilled firefighters.
In the same vein, adequate funding for fire prevention and response efforts was recognized as a priority. Allocating dedicated funds in the state’s annual budget for firefighting equipment, personnel training, and public awareness campaigns is essential for sustaining fire safety efforts. Additionally, exploring partnerships with private organizations and international donors to supplement government funding was proposed as a way to expand available resources for fire management.
In his closing remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Foundation, Prof. Yahaya Tanko Baba thanked the stakeholders for their valuable contributions in forging a path for implementing the research recommendations. He expressed optimism that with the combined efforts of all stakeholders, Sokoto state could build a more fire-resilient and prepared society. He called on everyone to take responsibility for implementing these recommendations and to remain committed to reducing fire risks in the state.
The meeting ended with expressions of solidarity and shared commitment to rising against the devastating effects of fire outbreaks in the state.
