The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) are to collaborate to check the rising incidents of tanker crashes on Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara roads.

Aliyu Kafindangi, the NEMA zonal head in charge of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara, made this known during a public awareness exercise organised by the agency on Friday in Sokoto.

Mr Kafindangi said the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Federal Fire Service (FFS) and State Fire Services were also involved in the partnership.

He highlighted that the partnership was aimed at enhancing the response to tanker crashes, minimising the loss of lives and properties, and ensuring victims receive prompt and adequate emergency services.

Mr Kafindangi expressed worry over the rising cases of tanker crashes, attendant fuel spillage after the incidents, and the dangers that led to the loss of lives and property.

He noted that sensitisation exercises were conducted in different locations in the three states.

Mr Kafindangi emphasised the need for collective efforts to combat tanker crashes, urging community leaders and the public to join forces with disaster managers on partnerships to prevent these incidents.

In his presentation, the head of the FFS Sokoto zonal office, Ibn Umar, dwelt on precautionary measures for fire outbreaks and immediate actions expected after tanker crashes. He urged authorities to repair Nigerian roads.

Mr Umar cautioned the drivers’ union against allowing underage driving and violation of traffic regulations.

“Everybody should be involved in curbing tanker crashes. We need our community leaders and the public’s collaboration. We must speak with one voice to stop this carnage from continuing and improve on what we do,” Mr Umar said.

Speaking also, the FRSC sector commander, Abdullahi Mai Kano, announced plans to establish more FRSC outposts in strategic locations to facilitate swift intervention in the event of tanker crashes.

Mr Abdullahi said the FRSC would continue to work with stakeholders and state governments to identify high-risk locations and establish outposts in those areas.

The commander called on parents to educate their children about the dangers of tanker crashes.

Discussions were held on ways to offer prompt responses and other precautionary measures.

(NAN)