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The Lagos State Government has introduced a new digital platform, the Lagos Emergency Responder Management System (LERMS), aimed at enhancing coordination among emergency agencies and reducing response time across the state.

In a statement, the government disclosed that the system was unveiled at the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic Conference Hall in Alausa, Ikeja.

Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, described the initiative as a practical step toward improving safety and responsiveness in Lagos.

He explained that the platform was designed to address challenges associated with managing emergencies in a densely populated city where multiple agencies often operate independently.

“LERMS brings together multiple layers of emergency response into a single, unified ecosystem, ensuring seamless coordination among first responders,” he said.

Oyerinde stated that the system integrates key services, including the EKO HELP distress platform, which enables residents to report emergencies via mobile applications, USSD, SMS and other channels.

He added that it connects agencies such as Lagos State Ambulance Service, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, the Fire Service and other security bodies, improving communication and response efficiency during emergencies.

He noted that the platform features a structured control centre for efficient call management and an alert system to keep residents informed during crises.

He also highlighted the Ambulance Services Management System, which facilitates real-time tracking of hospital bed availability, ambulance coordination and healthcare personnel management.

“The advantages are clear: faster response time, improved coordination, better resource allocation and enhanced data intelligence, ultimately reducing loss of lives and property,” he said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Sesan Ogundeko, said the launch serves as an introduction of the system to emergency responders ahead of its full deployment to residents.

He explained that one of the major challenges during emergencies has been identifying precise locations, which the new system aims to address.

“Your device will automatically transmit your location to responders, eliminating delays caused by trying to describe where an incident is happening,” Ogundeko explained.

He added that the platform would connect victims to the nearest responder, ensuring quicker assistance.

According to him, response time, currently averaging between 12 and 13 minutes, is expected to reduce to about five to seven minutes, aligning Lagos more closely with global standards.

He likened the process to ride-hailing services, where the nearest driver is matched to a request.

The government stated that the introduction of LERMS forms part of its broader plan to develop a smart city through the application of technology to improve public services.

In his welcome address, the General Manager of the Lagos State Command and Control Centre, Giwa Kennedy, described the system as a significant advancement in emergency management in the state.

He explained that the platform connects residents, responders and the control centre through multiple channels, including Interactive Voice Response (IVR), SMS, USSD, social media and the Eko Help application.

Kennedy stated that the system is powered by advanced artificial intelligence, which helps verify the authenticity of calls and incidents, thereby reducing false alarms and improving efficiency.

“LERMS is not just a system; it is a robust framework that enhances real-time monitoring, communication and rapid deployment of resources,” he said.

He added that responders would benefit from improved communication tools while on duty, as well as systems for tracking vehicles and equipment to ensure coordinated operations.

He further noted that the platform would keep residents informed during emergencies through its notification system and enhance medical response by enabling authorities to monitor hospital capacity and deploy resources effectively.

Describing the platform as a shift from traditional emergency response methods, Kennedy said it offers a more inclusive and technology-driven approach.

“With multiple reporting channels and location-tracking capability, responders can now reach incident scenes faster without delays associated with describing locations,” he said.

Residents have been encouraged to adopt the system and use it responsibly as the government continues awareness efforts ahead of its full rollout.

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