The National Emergency Management Agency has warned Nigerians to be vigilant as soaring temperatures across parts of the country increase the likelihood of fire incidents and heat-related health problems.
The caution was contained in a statement released on Saturday by the agency’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Manzo Ezekiel, on behalf of the Director-General, Zubaida Umar.
According to the agency, the ongoing heatwave conditions are capable of triggering fire disasters and other health complications if adequate safety measures are not taken.
“Following the recent rise in daily temperatures and heatwave conditions across parts of the country, the National Emergency Management Agency cautions on the heightened risk of fire disasters and related health challenges that may arise from the prevailing weather situation,” the statement said.
The agency explained that the extreme heat currently being experienced in several areas had also been confirmed in recent forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
It added that weather projections indicate that the intense heat conditions could persist for some time, making it important for citizens to remain cautious.
Umar urged households, businesses and institutions to handle materials capable of causing fire outbreaks with care, particularly during the period of excessive heat.
“She urged households, business operators and public institutions to pay close attention to the safe use of electrical appliances, gas cylinders and other combustible materials, noting that excessive heat can increase the vulnerability of such items to ignition,” the statement said.
She also advised proper storage of flammable substances, discouraging activities such as bush burning and poorly maintained electrical connections that may lead to fire incidents.
Beyond fire safety concerns, the NEMA boss also highlighted the health dangers associated with extreme heat, urging Nigerians to adopt preventive measures.
“In addition to fire safety, the DG NEMA advised citizens to take preventive measures against heat-related health challenges by staying well hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and paying special attention to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and persons with underlying health conditions,” the statement added.
Residents were further encouraged to monitor weather updates and safety advisories issued by relevant authorities and to report any fire outbreaks or emergencies promptly to response agencies.
The Director-General reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to strengthening public awareness and disaster risk reduction efforts aimed at protecting lives, property and the environment.
The advisory follows a recent warning by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, which said several parts of the country could experience temperatures exceeding 40°C, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses.
States expected to face the harshest conditions include Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi and Cross River, as well as the Federal Capital Territory. Other northern states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and Sokoto are also on alert as the extreme heat persists.
