The Honourable Minister of Interior has commended the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) for its proactive approach to strengthening emergency medical and disaster response systems in Nigeria.
Receiving Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu and his delegation on a courtesy visit, the Hon. Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo described emergency medical services (EMS) as a critical growth sector for Nigeria, stressing that the country’s rising population demands structured and sustainable emergency response systems.
“Emergency medical rescue service is the next oil. With our population growth, the need for structured emergency response is enormous. We are just beginning to scratch the surface,” the Minister stated.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s goal of building a $1 trillion economy by 2031 cannot be achieved without strong disaster and emergency management capacity. He stated, “You cannot grow your economy without growing the capacity of your country to respond to emergencies and disasters. The two must go together.”
The Minister also disclosed that the Federal Government is nearing completion of a major Emergency and Fire Service Academy in Abuja under the Federal Fire Service. The institution, expected to be commissioned as part of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ’s third anniversary activities, will significantly boost national training capacity in rescue and disaster management.
While encouraging innovation, the Minister stressed the importance of operating within constitutional provisions, noting that emergency management falls under the residual legislative list, empowering states while requiring legal clarity and coordination.
He assured LASEMA of the Ministry’s readiness to provide technical guidance and institutional support.
In his remarks, Permanent Secretary, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) announced plans to reposition its proposed academy as the Institute of Disaster Management, focusing on disaster preparedness, emergency coordination, and professional capacity building, and seeks Federal collaboration.
He reaffirmed its commitment to operating strictly within constitutional and legal frameworks, noted that the Institute of Disaster Management, will align with national standards.
He highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Interior, particularly in fire service coordination, technical training, and joint emergency operations.
Referencing a recent emergency response at the airport where lives were successfully rescued through inter-agency collaboration, he emphasized that teamwork and capacity development remain critical to effective disaster management.
The Hon. Minister reaffirmed federal support for state-level initiatives, particularly in high-demand commercial centers like Lagos.
“Capacity building is the only sustainable path. If we build capacity, we secure Nigeria’s future.” He said.
E-Signed
Mary Ali (Mrs)
Head, Press and Public Relations
Ministry of Interior
24th February 2026.
