Amid the recent wave of fire outbreaks in major markets across Lagos State, the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations has unveiled a comprehensive sensitisation and advocacy programme aimed at boosting fire safety awareness in markets and motor parks.
The Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, stressed the importance of shared responsibility in preventing fire disasters.
Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Oyerinde noted that preparedness should not be seen as the sole duty of government but a collective obligation involving all stakeholders.
He explained that the initiative is designed to equip traders, transport operators, and market leaders with knowledge of preventive measures, emergency response techniques, and the safe handling of electrical appliances and other materials that pose fire risks.
“By taking this campaign directly to high-risk areas, our goal is to minimise hazards, safeguard lives, and protect the livelihoods of thousands of Lagosians,” the Commissioner stated.
According to him, the first phase of the programme will feature roadshows and sensitisation exercises across markets and motor parks in Ketu, Agege, Ile Epo, Iyana Ipaja, Ipodo, and Arena-Oshodi, with the aim of raising awareness and entrenching safety practices.
He urged market leaders, traders, and transport workers to embrace a culture of safety and adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards fire incidents.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Sesan Ogundeko, lauded the cooperation of market leadership in advancing the campaign and assured that the government remains committed to sustaining safety initiatives across the state.
Ogundeko added that the fire safety sensitisation drive forms part of a broader strategy to make Lagos safer, more secure, and resilient, while reducing the risk of future fire disasters.
Lagos govt launches fire safety campaign in markets, motor parks
