FEMD Rescues 105 Lives In 2024 Amid Multiple Disasters.
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has announced that 105 individuals were rescued this year from building collapses across Abuja, although four lives were tragically lost.
The acting Director-General of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, disclosed these figures during a press briefing held in Abuja on Monday. He identified the affected areas as Prince and Princess Estate, Guzape District, Garki 2, Kubwa, and Sabon Lugbe near Airport Road.
Engr. Mohammed detailed FEMD’s extensive emergency response efforts in 2024, which included building collapses, fire outbreaks, flooding, earth tremors, and the distribution of relief supplies to affected residents.
Highlighting the department’s accomplishments, Mohammed stated that FEMD successfully saved an estimated 3,500 lives across various emergencies, responding to 165 calls through its toll-free hotline, 112.
“During 2024, we rescued 75 individuals from flood-related incidents, although one life was sadly lost in Angwan Hakimi, Orozo, within the Abuja Municipal Area Council. To mitigate the effects of rainfall, we barricaded the slip road at the Galadimawa Interchange on 25th June, reopening it on 17th November 2024,” he explained.
The FEMD also addressed fire incidents, rescuing 1,230 individuals without any casualties. Notable emergencies included fires at Old Karu Market, a fitness facility in Gwarinpa, and several residential properties.
Among other interventions, FEMD averted a suicide attempt on a telecommunications mast at Katampe Hill, thanks to the swift actions of its officials and the police.
Earth Tremors and Road Safety Efforts
Mohammed also discussed the earth tremor that affected Mpape, Katampe, and parts of Maitama Extension, displacing over 2,000 residents. A report on this incident has been submitted to the Hon. Minister of the FCT.
Regarding road safety, FEMD rescued 89 individuals from traffic accidents, although three fatalities were recorded. To reduce road-related tragedies, the department has partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps to launch its Ember month campaign, “Operation Eagle Eye,” focusing on educating commercial drivers at motor parks across Abuja.
Outlining plans for 2025, Engr. Mohammed revealed that FEMD intends to leverage advanced technology to improve disaster management.
“This includes utilising low Earth orbit satellites for real-time imagery and data analysis to enhance risk assessments and disaster monitoring in the FCT. We aim to establish effective communication channels for sharing information and best practices while implementing secure data storage solutions,” he said.
He emphasised the department’s commitment to intensifying risk assessments within the city centre to mitigate potential disasters and improve response efficiency.
The acting Director-General reaffirmed FEMD’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property, ensuring Abuja remains prepared to address emergencies and natural disasters effectively.
