THE Nigerian Communications Commission has said that the Emergency Communications Centres (ECCs) established by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are not only improving emergency response services in Nigeria but also creating job opportunities for Nigerian youth and professionals.
These centres, which are now fully operational in 27 state capitals, have become a vital lifeline for individuals facing emergencies.
It stated that similar to the well-known 911 emergency number in developed countries, Nigerians can now dial the toll-free number 112 to reach ECCs in times of distress, such as fire outbreaks, robberies, violent attacks, accidents, and health crises.
The NCC has constructed and implemented 27 ECCs so far, with an additional four centres set to commence services in September 2023. Furthermore, four more centres are expected to be operational before the end of the year, bringing the total to 31 ECCs nationwide.
They informed the public that NCC has equipped ECCs with advanced technology platforms, including Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, to facilitate seamless communication between response agencies and emergency callers. The toll-free number, 112, was specifically designed for easy recall during emergencies.
It went further to say that, to ensure effective rescue services, ECC agents have undergone extensive training and are equipped with state-of-the-art communications equipment, such as digital radios and Internet-protocol (IP) and geo-location technologies. These tools enable responders to quickly identify incident locations and deliver prompt assistance to the public. ECCs operate round-the-clock, with agents working in shifts to ensure uninterrupted emergency services.
Pointing out that the Police Force, which plays a crucial role in crime prevention and control, has received additional mobile communication devices to instantly receive information from ECC call agents. This initiative facilitates better command and control during emergency situations across the country.
In addition to their primary role in emergency communications, ECCs have assumed a broader socio-economic responsibility by providing job opportunities for Nigerian citizens. Each ECC employs call agents, facility and IT staff, and administrators. The NCC has set competitive basic salaries to attract Nigerian youth and other employees to work at the centres.
Currently, over 1,200 individuals have been employed at the 27 operational centres, and as the additional eight centres become fully operational by 2024, more job opportunities will be created. The ECCs are managed by indigenous Nigerian consultants who oversee facility and operational management.
The ECCs’ implementation by the NCC has not only saved lives but also demonstrated the commission’s commitment to addressing unemployment among Nigerian youth. The integration of technology, trained staff, and seamless communication channels has transformed emergency response services in Nigeria and provided a much-needed boost to the country’s workforce, NCC enlightened the public.
