Abuja — The Federal Government will soon release a national emergency phone number to facilitate rescue operations during disasters. This was disclosed yesterday by the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service Engr Olusegun James Okebiorun at a fire conference and expo in Abuja.

He said the issue had been discussed extensively by the National Emergency Management Agency and other security agencies, adding that within the next six months, the number would be made available to the public. Engr. Okebiorun also advocated for private fire station to complement those provided by government. According to him, the modalities for the private fire departments have been carved out and awaiting approval. He said in Abuja city, there are only four fire stations and lamented that in the upper part of Asokoro as well as Maitama there are no fire departments.

"We need at least six fire stations in Abuja central, while at Gwarinpa the only one station for the whole of that community is grossly inadequate," the controller-general stated.