The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved 112 as Nigeria’s official national emergency number, a move aimed at strengthening rapid response systems and improving coordination across all emergency services nationwide.
The decision was reached at the 157th NEC meeting, held virtually and chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima. The initiative is designed to eliminate delays caused by bureaucratic processes and provide citizens with a single, reliable number to call during emergencies.
As part of the rollout, NEC also approved the creation of a multi-agency implementation committee to oversee execution. The programme will be coordinated by the Office of the Vice President in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Shettima emphasized that the adoption of 112 goes beyond a technical upgrade, describing it as a critical test of governance and responsiveness. He noted that in situations such as accidents, insecurity, medical emergencies, and natural disasters, citizens need immediate action rather than administrative delays.
While acknowledging that the emergency number already exists in some capacity, the Vice President stressed the need for proper coordination, standard operating procedures, public awareness, and institutional trust to make it fully effective.
He further highlighted NEC’s role in driving economic and developmental progress, urging members to focus on impactful decisions that directly improve the lives of Nigerians.
In addition, the council reviewed progress on the rehabilitation of police training institutions nationwide, commending the committee led by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and calling for expedited funding and equitable distribution across geopolitical zones.
