Abuja: The Nigerian Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) has identified poor telecommunications connectivity as a significant barrier to effective emergency response throughout the nation. Dr. Doubra Emuren, National Coordinator of NEMSAS, highlighted these issues at a recent workshop for journalists in Abuja, organized by NEMSAS in partnership with the Solina Centre for International Development and Research (SCIDaR).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Emuren emphasized that unreliable network coverage disrupts emergency call systems, particularly the National Emergency Number, 112, managed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which remains inconsistent in numerous locations. “Connectivity is critical to emergency response. When networks fail, response time is affected, and lives are put at risk,” he stated.
Further complications include weak coordination among agencies, inadequate infrastructure, and limited regulatory enforcement, all of which thwart seamless operations. Emuren pointed out that Nigeria has a shortage of paramedics and ambulances, with less than 1,000 paramedics and about 500 ambulances, compared to the 4,000 required to adequately serve the population.
He underscored the necessity of scaling up the training of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to deliver basic life support and enhanced pre-hospital care. “In the short to medium term, expanding EMT training can help bridge the manpower gap and improve response coverage,” Emuren added.
Emuren advocated for increased private sector involvement and the integration of air ambulances to improve access in congested and remote areas. He also addressed issues such as poor road access, insecurity, and inadequate traffic management systems that further complicate emergency operations, calling for a framework that prioritizes ambulance movement.
Additionally, Emuren highlighted the need for a Good Samaritan law to protect citizens who assist victims in emergencies. He reported that NEMSAS has transported approximately 47,000 pregnant women and neonates across 132 local government areas under the Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiatives (MAMII), supporting safe deliveries and handling emergencies at no cost.
NEMSAS has established structures in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory, according to Emuren. Dr. Lawal Bakare, Lead of Communication and Innovation at the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) Coordination Office, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized the importance of improving coordination and equity in healthcare delivery, aligning with the National Health Act of 2014.
Bakare stressed the significance of data, governance, and media engagement in enhancing accountability and public trust in the health system. Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, Executive Director of the Initiative for Sustainable Media Policy and Health (ISMPH), highlighted the media’s role in bridging the gap between policy and the public, advocating for accurate reporting to enhance awareness, counter misinformation, and promote responsible use of emergency services.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that stakeholders called for stronger collaboration to improve communication systems, workforce capacity, and infrastructure for a more responsive emergency healthcare system.