Official Emergency Help Lines In Nigeria: Full List

In a country as vast and diverse as Nigeria, having quick access to emergency helplines can make a critical difference during times of need. Whether you're facing a medical emergency, a road accident, or a security threat, knowing the right number to call can save lives. This blog post provides an updated list of essential emergency contacts in Nigeria as of 2024.

National Toll-Free Emergency Numbers

112: This is Nigeria's national toll-free emergency number, launched to provide citizens with direct access to emergency services such as the police, fire department, and ambulance services. This number is accessible across the country and is operational 24/7, ensuring that no matter where you are in Nigeria, help is just a call away.

199: Another important toll-free number is 199, which also connects you to essential emergency services like the police, fire brigade, and medical responders. These numbers have become critical in a nation where timely response can be the difference between life and death.

Police and Security Services

Nigeria Police Force:

• General Lines: 01-4931260, 01-4978899

• Inspector General of Police (SMS Only): 0805966666

Rapid Response Squad (RRS):

• Hotlines: 070-55350249, 070-35068242, 080-79279349

State Security Service (SSS):

• Hotlines: 08132222105-9

The RRS, especially in Lagos, is well-known for its quick intervention in emergencies. These lines should be your first port of call in scenarios ranging from theft and robbery to violent confrontations and kidnappings.

Health and Medical Emergencies

Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC):

• Hotlines: 122 or 07002255372

Emergency Response Africa:

• Hotline: 0800 0255 5375

Lagos Emergency Service:

• Hotlines: 112 or 767

In case of road accidents, medical emergencies, or when you require an ambulance, these numbers will connect you to the appropriate authorities. The FRSC's lines are particularly useful for traffic-related emergencies, while the 112 and 767 numbers cater specifically to Lagos residents for a broad range of emergency services.

Fire and Environmental Emergencies

Lagos State Fire Service:

• Hotlines: 08033234943, 08023321770

Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA):

• Collapsed Buildings and Flooding: 01-5931947, 4933658, 4931940

For fire outbreaks or building collapses, these contacts will connect you to the relevant authorities capable of providing immediate assistance.

Specialized Helplines

Domestic Violence and Rape:

• Rape Helpline: 080072732255

• Domestic Violence (Lagos): 08057542266, 08102678443

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention:

• Suicide Prevention Initiative: 08062106493, 08092106493, 09080217555

• Lagos Suicide Hotlines: 08058820777, 09030000741

Nigerian Army Human Rights (For harassment by army personnel):

• Hotlines: 08160134303, 08161507644

These specialized helplines are crucial for providing support in sensitive situations such as sexual assault, domestic violence, and mental health crises. The availability of these numbers reflects a growing awareness and responsiveness to the diverse needs of Nigerian citizens.

Conclusion

While it is crucial to have these emergency contacts at your fingertips, it's equally important to use them wisely and responsibly. Misusing emergency lines can lead to delays for those in genuine need. Save these numbers in your phone, share them with friends and family, and keep them easily accessible. In a crisis, being prepared can save lives.

This list reflects the most current information as of 2024, and while efforts are made to keep it updated, you should always verify these contacts regularly, especially if you reside in different parts of the country where regional numbers may also be in use.