News
NCC to lead rollout as NEC adopts 112 as Nigeria’s unified emergency number
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is to spearhead the implementation of a unified national emergency communication system following the adoption of 112 as Nigeria’s official emergency number by the National Economic Council (NEC).
KANO FOCUS reports that the decision was reached at the council’s 157th meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s emergency response framework through a coordinated, technology-driven approach.
Under the directive, the NCC will jointly lead a multi-agency implementation committee alongside the Office of the Vice President. The committee is mandated to harmonise emergency communication protocols across federal, state, and local government agencies, with the goal of eliminating fragmentation and ensuring quicker response to emergencies nationwide.
The adoption of 112 is expected to consolidate multiple existing emergency lines into a single, easily accessible number, aligning Nigeria with global best practices in emergency telecommunications.
Speaking at the meeting, Shettima emphasised the urgency of the reform, noting that delays caused by bureaucratic bottlenecks often result in loss of lives.
“This is not only a technical reform. It is a test of the state’s humanity,” he said, stressing the need for immediate and efficient response mechanisms for citizens in distress.
He noted that while the 112 number already exists within Nigeria’s telecom framework, the key challenge lies in achieving full coordination, operational standardisation, and nationwide awareness—areas in which the NCC is expected to provide leadership.
Telecommunications operators are expected to collaborate closely with the commission to ensure seamless nationwide access to the 112 line, including integration with call centres, geolocation systems, and dispatch units for emergency services such as police, fire, and medical responders.
Policy analysts have described the initiative as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s broader digital infrastructure and public safety strategy, with the potential to significantly improve response times and save lives.
Meanwhile, the council also reviewed progress on the rehabilitation of police training institutions across the country. It commended the work of an ad hoc committee led by Peter Mbah and urged the Ministry of Finance to expedite the release of outstanding funds for the project.
The NEC further directed that the rehabilitation programme should ensure equitable distribution across all geopolitical zones in its first phase.
KANO FOCUS reports that the move signals Nigeria’s push toward a more integrated and responsive emergency system, with the NCC expected to play a pivotal role in translating policy into effective nationwide operations.
News
Cameroon telecom regulator visits NCC for benchmarking exercise
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) of the Republic of Cameroon, Philemon Zoo Zame, on Wednesday visited the headquarters of the [Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in Abuja for a benchmarking exercise aimed at strengthening regulatory collaboration and knowledge sharing between both countries.
KANO FOCUS reports that during the visit, the Cameroonian telecom regulator met with the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Aminu Maida.
A statement issued by Ayiabari A. Kigbara, Manager, Media Relations, Public Affairs Department of the NCC, said the engagement focused on exchanging ideas and best practices in telecommunications regulation, with emphasis on enhancing efficiency and development within the sector.
Headlines
Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.
In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.
It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.
Headlines
Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.
KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.
Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.
He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.
The President wished Garo success in his new role.
