The Lagos State Command and Control Centre, in collaboration with its Technical Partner, Leapsoft Limited has trained first responders from State and Federal Agencies to strengthen their response capabilities to emergencies and ensure effective disaster management.
The programme with the theme: “Standardising Emergency Response: Training First Responders on Best Practices for Efficiency and Impact”, was to create a unified platform to build the capacities of first responders, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle emergencies and various forms of violence effectively.
In his welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Sesan Ogundeko, noted that the training aimed to boost coordination among first responders, ultimately enhancing the protection of lives and property in Lagos.
”With this training, first responders will be better equipped to handle emergencies efficiently, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.”
General Manager of the Lagos Command and Control Centre, Femi Giwa, who described the training as a major milestone in strengthening Lagos State’s emergency response framework, said the programme also educated participants on legal and institutional frameworks, victim management during emergencies, and international best practices for disaster response.
According to Giwa, the training was designed to enhance response capabilities by providing a structured platform for first responders to understand and implement standard operating procedures. It was also to enable them to comprehend state response plans and their specific roles during disasters.
“First responders are the backbone of emergency management and the first line of defense in times of crisis. Their ability to make effective decisions within the golden hour—the critical period between life and death—depends on the level of training they have received,” he stated.
The General Manager also commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for elevating the Command and Control Centre to an Agency under the Ministry of Special Duties.
“This training underscores the commitment of the Lagos State Government to ensuring that first responders are well-prepared to handle emergencies efficiently, minimize casualties, and protect lives and property. As Lagos continues to grow as a mega-city, the importance of a structured, professional, and prompt emergency response system can not be overemphasized.
”These efforts align with the THEMES Plus agenda of Mr. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasizing continuous capacity-building alongside technological advancements.”
Earlier, Managing Director of Leapsoft Limited, Abiodun Adeoye highlighted that the training was structured to equip responders with internationally recognized best practices, enabling them to handle diverse emergencies efficiently.
”Through this training, participants will gain hands-on experience, knowledge of global best practices, inter-agency collaboration, and technological advancements in emergency management. This initiative will further solidify Lagos State’s reputation as a leader in disaster preparedness and emergency response in Nigeria, he said”.
The event brought together key emergency response agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Red Cross Society, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Ambulance Service, LASAMBUS, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, and Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA.