Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, permanent secretary at the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), has attributed the agency’s success in disaster management to its skilled human resources.

Mr Oke-Osanyintolu, during a courtesy visit to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) office in Lagos on Sunday, stressed that effective disaster response depends on trained personnel working alongside modern technology.

He stressed the importance of continuous human capital development within emergency management institutions.

“Technology alone cannot deliver results without capable and well-prepared personnel.

“At LASEMA, we deliberately combine advanced technology with strong human capacity development,” he said.

He explained that this approach improved efficiency, coordination, and overall effectiveness during emergency operations.

“We deploy technology not just for speed, but to ensure accurate and effective emergency response,” Mr Oke-Osanyintolu added.

He said LASEMA’s improved performance was supported by modern digital equipment provided by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The permanent secretary noted that government investment had strengthened response time and reduced disaster-related casualties.

Speaking on the Martins Street fire, he described the affected 25-storey building as overcrowded and unsafe.

“Before the incident, we conducted sensitisation and activated early warning systems through local emergency committees,” he said.

He added that the building contained combustible materials, generators, and petrochemicals, which worsened the fire.

Mr Oke-Osanyintolu said emergency teams were immediately deployed under the direct supervision of the state governor.

“Many states struggle with response due to poor political will, but Lagos prioritises emergency management,” he said.

Mr Oke-Osanyintolu emphasised that effective emergency management cannot succeed without strong political commitment.

He described Governor Sanwo-Olu as the chief incident commander, providing leadership during major emergencies.

Mr Oke-Osanyintolu urged residents to remain vigilant and observe early warning signals during emergencies.

He advised prompt evacuation of affected areas to minimise casualties and prevent avoidable loss of lives.

(NAN)