The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has warned Nigerians about the growing risk of fire outbreaks and heat-related health challenges as temperatures continue to rise across parts of the country.
The warning was issued in a statement 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 have increased the likelihood of fire incidents and health complications, prompting calls for citizens to take precautionary measures.
“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.
NEMA noted that the extreme temperatures currently being experienced across many parts of Nigeria have also been confirmed in forecasts issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
The forecasts indicate that persistent heat conditions are likely to continue for some time.
Umar advised households, businesses, and public institutions to exercise caution in handling materials that could easily trigger fires, especially under intense heat.
She urged Nigerians to use electrical appliances carefully, handle gas cylinders safely, properly store flammable substances, avoid bush burning and ensure that electrical connections are well maintained.
Excessive heat, she warned, can make combustible materials more vulnerable to ignition.
Beyond fire safety, NEMA also encouraged citizens to protect themselves from heat-related health problems by staying well hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and paying special attention to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions
Residents were also advised to monitor weather forecasts and safety advisories issued by relevant authorities and to report any fire outbreak or emergency to the appropriate response agencies.
The advisory follows a recent warning by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency that temperatures could exceed 40°C in several states, with high humidity levels increasing the risk of heat stress.
States expected to face the most severe conditions include Kebbi State, Niger State, Kwara State, Oyo State, Kogi State, Nasarawa State, Anambra State, Abia State, Ebonyi State and Cross River State, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
Northern states including Taraba State, Adamawa State, Plateau State, Kaduna State, Zamfara State and Sokoto State are also on high alert.
NEMA reaffirmed its commitment to raising public awareness and strengthening disaster risk reduction efforts to safeguard lives, property, and the environment.
