Ndigbo Amaka Traders Association Calls for Fire Prevention in Lagos

Chinedu Ukatu, the President of the Ndigbo Amaka Traders Association, called on the Lagos State Government to transition from condolence visits to proactive fire prevention investments during a documentary presentation titled “Burning Point: Inside Lagos Fire” by CBI News in Lagos. He emphasized the need for improved electrical installations, firefighting facilities, and compulsory insurance for traders to mitigate the impact of recurring market fires.

Ukatu commended the Lagos State Fire Service for its emergency response but questioned the fulfillment of promises regarding the deployment of firefighting trucks. He proposed collaboration between the state government, the Ministry of Power, and traders’ associations to address deteriorating electrical wiring in markets, stating that traders alone could not finance the necessary upgrades.

Additionally, he sought government support for traders rebuilding their shops and highlighted the burden of fees imposed on traders retrieving goods after fire incidents. Mrs Margaret Adeseye, Director-General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, outlined the government's fire prevention measures, including expanding fire station coverage and improving emergency readiness.