The University of Lagos (UNILAG) took a significant step towards ensuring safety within and outside its community as a 3-day public lecture on Safeguarding Lives through Fire Prevention commenced on Wednesday, July 3 2024.
A collaborative effort of the African Centre of Excellence for Drug Research, Herbal Medicine Development and Regulatory Science (ACEDHARS), UNILAG and UNILAG Fire Service Unit, the public sensitization programme also featured practical fire simulation sessions to equip participants with the knowledge on the use of fire extinguishers and other fire-fighting equipment.
The first two days of the event, which had participants drawn from the University Community at the Akoka Campus was held at the Tolu Odugbemi (formerly UNILAG Staff School) Hall, while the third day was held at the Old Great Hall for members of the University community at the Yaba and Idi-Araba campuses. Participants included staff, vendors and commercial transporters who operate in all the campuses of the University.
In her opening remarks on the first day of the sensitization exercise, the Centre Leader of ACEDHARS, Dr. Omobolanle Ade-Ademilua, emphasised the importance of the training programme to expose members of the university community to information on prevention of fire outbreaks, and response to fire emergencies.
“We understand this to be a critical aspect of the university’s safety strategy. Since we commenced operations at ACEDHARS in 2019, the Centre has been fully involved in supporting the University’s mission to develop the skill set of staff through trainings and workshops. As such, this is not just another programme about fire drills, but one to prepare and train the community for fire prevention and emergency response”
Similarly, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, who represented the Vice-Chancellor at the event, identified safety as top priority for the University, and commended the UNILAG Fire Services Unit for holding numerous sensitization fora around the university community. While underscoring the need for a proactive approach to fire safety, Professor Atsenuwa reiterated the commitment of the University leadership to creating a safe environment, with the active participation of all members of the University community.
Her words “…Our commitment to safety is unwavering, and we will continue to invest in programmes and initiatives that prioritise the well-being of our staff, students, and visitors. I urge you all to take this training seriously and to remain vigilant in reporting any potential fire hazards or safety concerns”.
Assistant Controller-General of the Nigerian Fire Service, Olusegun Samuel Oladunni served as the keynote speaker on the first day of the public programme. Delivering a paper on Understanding Fire Safety Regulations, he highlighted the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders in fire prevention, to avert grievous consequences and gruesome losses that could result from fire incidents.
The guest-speaker put participants through key factors of Fire Safety including Fire Safety Education, as well as Proper Handling and Storage Procedures for Flammable and Combustible Materials. He also shared vital tips to combat fires in emergency situations.
At the end of his presentation, participants shared their thoughts, comments and questions with the Fire management Expert. Through a lively discussion, the Assistant Controller-General engaged the audience to ensure better understanding of fire safety.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Micheal Joshua / Bayo Salau
