NEMA moves to check fire outbreaks in markets

WORRIED by the incessant market fire outbreaks in South- East states,

the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Thursday staged a one day Sensitization and  Simulation exercise for traders at the popular

Eke Market in Awka, Anambra state.

 Several markets in the east such as the popular Onitsha Main Market,

Nnewi Market, Eke Awka, Ariara Market in Aba, Abia state, Enugu Timber

Market, among others, had in the past suffered mysterious fire disasters that wrecked serious havoc.

Speaking during the exercise that held inside the Eke Awka market, South-East zonal coordinator of  NEMA, Mr James Eze, explained that the event was aimed at strengthening preparedness, prevention, mitigation, and timely response in addressing fire outbreaks in

markets in the state.

   According to him: “Markets fires are human- induced disasters that expose victims to risk of injury, death and destruction of property”

 “The simulation exercise is in line with NEMA’s preparedness and response strategies, also aimed at increased synergy among response agencies in Anambra state.

 The objective of the programme he pointed out was to ensure that stakeholders, especially first responders are fit, ready and able to provide prompt professional services meant to reduce casualties during fire incidents.

  He said: “We know that disaster management is demanding, and requires a lot of determination and commitment to accomplish, therefore, we must understand the various roles lead and support Agencies ought to play in managing disaster and building community resilience”.

  Eze, added that the exercise, put together by NEMA, in conjunction

with Anambra state Emergency management Agency, was equally designed

to expose the traders and the market leaders to the consequences of

market fires.