Reps push for centralised emergency call centre, unified code

The House of Representatives is taking steps to revolutionise Nigeria’s emergency response system through the establishment of a centralised emergency call centre and a unified short code for distress calls nationwide. This move is spearheaded by Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu, who represents Ahiazu Mbaise/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency, via the sponsorship of the National Emergency Call Centre […]

The House of Representatives is taking steps to revolutionise Nigeria’s emergency response system through the establishment of a centralised emergency call centre and a unified short code for distress calls nationwide.

This move is spearheaded by Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu, who represents Ahiazu Mbaise/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency, via the sponsorship of the National Emergency Call Centre and Short Code (Establishment) Bill 2025 (HB.2343).

The Bill, which recently passed First Reading in the House, seeks to create a streamlined, tech-driven system similar to the 911 model in the United States, ensuring that Nigerians have access to a single, easy-to-remember number for all emergencies—be it robbery, fire, medical, or natural disasters.

According to Hon. Martins, the proposed system will serve as a national switchboard, connecting citizens instantly with relevant emergency services such as the police, fire service, hospitals and disaster management agencies.

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“Our current emergency response structure is fragmented and confusing to the average Nigerian. We need a unified code that works everywhere and for every type of emergency,” he said.

The bill is among the five recently introduced by Hon. Martins, all aimed at addressing critical gaps in national development.

The other bills introduced by the lawmaker include proposals for a National Institute for Film Production and Entertainment Film Village (HB2341), a Federal Technical Education and Skills Acquisition Centre in Mbaise (HB2342), the National Independent Project Monitoring and Evaluation Agency (HB.2344) and Real Estate Development Bank Bill 2025 (HB.2345).

If passed into law, the Emergency Call Centre Bill will mark a significant leap forward in Nigeria’s capacity to respond swiftly and efficiently to life-threatening situations, potentially saving thousands of lives annually.