Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), has attributed the agency’s success in disaster management to skilled human resources.
He stated this during a courtesy visit to reporters in Lagos on Sunday.
According to Oke-Osanyintolu, effective disaster response relies on trained personnel working alongside modern technology.
He stressed the importance of continuous human capital development in emergency management institutions.
“Technology alone cannot deliver results without capable and well-prepared personnel.
“At LASEMA, we deliberately combine advanced technology with strong human capacity development,” he said.
He explained that this approach has improved efficiency, coordination, and overall effectiveness during emergency operations.
“We deploy technology not just for speed, but to ensure accurate and effective emergency response,” Oke-Osanyintolu added.
He said LASEMA’s improved performance is supported by modern digital equipment provided by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The permanent secretary noted that government investment has strengthened response times and reduced disaster-related casualties.
Speaking on the Martins Street fire incident, he described the affected 25-storey building as overcrowded and unsafe.
“Before the incident, we conducted sensitization and activated early warning systems through local emergency committees,” he said.
He added that the building contained combustible materials, generators, and petrochemicals, which worsened the fire outbreak.
Oke-Osanyintolu said emergency teams were immediately deployed under the direct supervision of the state governor.
“Many states struggle with response due to poor political will, but Lagos prioritizes emergency management,” he said.
He emphasized that effective emergency management cannot succeed without strong political commitment.
He described Governor Sanwo-Olu as the Chief Incident Commander, providing leadership during major emergencies.
Oke-Osanyintolu urged residents to remain vigilant and observe early warning signals during emergencies.
He advised prompt evacuation of affected areas to minimize casualties and prevent avoidable loss of lives.
