Health
NGOs Train First Responders To Curb Emergency Deaths
By Aderogba George
Three Non-Governmental Organisations on Tuesday in Abuja organised a training for desk officers from various organisations, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), on first-response skills to reduce deaths during emergencies.
The organisers are Smile Network International, the HAVIDS Centre for Environment and Development, and the Fountain Heritage Network for Social Development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training is tagged “LifefirstNaija: Community Bystander First Responder Trainer”.
It is aimed at equipping citizens with the knowledge, confidence and skills to respond promptly in emergency situations.
Dr MacJohn Nwaobiala, a retired Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Education, said the initiative was designed to equip ordinary citizens with life-saving skills before professional help arrives.
Nwaobiala, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Heritage Network for Social Development, stressed the importance of timely response to emergencies.
He noted that emergencies could occur anywhere, including homes, markets, schools and workplaces.
He described the training as a sensitisation programme to address low levels of emergency response in Nigeria, which he said had contributed to avoidable deaths.
“People are often unaware of what to do during emergencies. Instead of taking prompt action, they sometimes crowd around victims and unintentionally worsen the situation.
“We felt the need to create awareness and build a network of advocates who can promote proper emergency response and educate others in their workplaces.
“How do you respond in an emergency or accident? How do you save lives and reduce pain? This is our first sensitisation programme in Abuja, and it will continue,” he said.
Nwaobiala added that the initiative would also help address concerns about negligence in healthcare by promoting early intervention before victims reach hospitals.
He called for attitudinal change among Nigerians, emphasising the need for collective responsibility, reorientation and commitment to saving lives.
Also speaking, Mrs Christiana Oliko, a retired Director in the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, said the training was necessary in view of increasing reports of emergency-related deaths across the country.
She noted that emergencies could occur in everyday settings, including schools and recreational environments.
“Sometimes people slump while playing football or collapse while walking. This training will help raise awareness and encourage timely response.
“Timeliness is critical in saving lives. Starting from young people is key to building a responsive society.
“Those trained today can take the knowledge back to their organisations, develop work plans and mobilise resources to train others,” she said. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Tosin Kolade