Citizens for Peace and First Aid Mission Urges Government to Make First Aid Training Compulsory.
By Shuaibu Sambo Abuja
The Commandant General of the Citizens for Peace and First Aid Mission of Nigeria, Retired Colonel Igwe Amara, has appealed to the Federal and State Governments to introduce compulsory first aid training in all departments of health-related institutions across the country.
Col. Amara made the appeal during a news conference in Abuja organized by the organization to commemorate his one-year anniversary in office as the head of the voluntary body.
He noted that safety is the foundation of sustainable peace and improved community wellbeing, stressing the importance of equipping citizens with basic first aid knowledge to reduce avoidable casualties and deaths, whether in homes, workplaces, or public spaces.
“The health and life of every individual is paramount to the progress of any community, regardless of origin, religion, or affiliations,” Col. Amara said.
Reflecting on the achievements under his leadership, he listed key milestones, including the successful revalidation of membership, full registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and the establishment of operational commands in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. He also announced the development of the organization’s official website to improve communication and coordination.
The Commandant General further revealed that the organization has played active roles in partnership with security agencies and emergency responses in various states, including Kaduna, Sokoto, Abuja, and most recently in Borno State during a flood crisis.
To mark the one-year anniversary, the organization hosted a week-long training camp for members, focused on rescue and life-saving missions. A special retreat was also held for senior and national officers. The celebration featured the decoration of newly promoted officers and members, along with the presentation of awards to deserving individuals, associates, and commands.
Among the dignitaries at the event was Hon. Balarabe Shehu Kakale, a former member of the National Assembly and one-time Commissioner of Health in Sokoto State. As a patron of the organization, he commended the mission’s readiness and professional structure, describing it as a “ready-made regiment” equipped with the capacity to support national rescue and security operations.
He urged the Ministry of Interior and other relevant government bodies to fully utilize the services of the Citizens for Peace and First Aid Mission of Nigeria in strengthening the country’s emergency response framework.
Col. Amara reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting safety and peace at all levels of society, calling on stakeholders to prioritize first aid education as a tool for community resilience
Col. Amara reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting safety and peace at all levels of society, calling on stakeholders to prioritize first aid education as a tool for community resilience.
