Your Lifeline in a Crisis: Understanding the Nigeria Police Emergency Numbers

​In times of danger or when a crime is in progress, knowing who to call and the correct number to dial can be the difference between safety and distress. For citizens in Nigeria, understanding the police and general emergency numbers is a vital part of personal security and community well-being.

​While Nigeria has a unified emergency system, it is important to know the key national and state-specific numbers to ensure you get through to the right assistance quickly.

​The National Toll-Free Emergency Line: 112

​The primary, nationwide toll-free emergency number in Nigeria is 112.

​This single three-digit number is intended to be the universal safety and emergency line, connecting callers to various response agencies across the country, including the police, fire service, and medical teams. It is a toll-free number, meaning you can dial it from any network without needing airtime.

• ​Who it connects you to: Police, Ambulance, Fire Service, and other disaster response agencies.
• ​Availability: Intended for nationwide use.
• ​Cost: Toll-free (can be called without airtime).

​If you are unsure of the specific number for the police in your state, or if you are in a location where state-specific numbers are not immediately known, 112 should be your first point of contact.

​The Dedicated Security and Police Number: 199

​Another crucial number to be aware of, often cited as a direct line for the Nigeria Police Force for all security-related emergencies nationwide, is 199.

​While 112 is the universal line, sources indicate that 199 may connect you more directly to law enforcement for urgent security threats and crimes. It is advisable to have both numbers saved and to try the one you can remember fastest in a high-stress situation.

• ​Who it connects you to: The Nigeria Police Force for security emergencies.
• ​Availability: Intended for nationwide use.

​State-Specific Emergency Lines: Lagos State Example

​Some states, particularly densely populated urban centers, have their own dedicated emergency helplines that often integrate police response.

​In Lagos State, for example, the primary emergency number is 767. This number is another toll-free option that provides direct access to police, ambulance, and traffic services within Lagos. If you are a resident or visitor in Lagos, using 767 may offer a more localized and potentially faster response time for police intervention.

​How to Report an Emergency Effectively

​Calling an emergency number is only the first step. To ensure a fast and effective response, here is what you must do:

1. ​Stay Calm and Speak Clearly: Take a deep breath. A clear, calm voice helps the operator understand the severity and details of the situation.
2. ​Provide Your Exact Location: This is the most critical piece of information. Give a precise address, landmark, or description of your surroundings. Do not assume the operator knows where you are calling from.
3. ​Describe the Emergency: State clearly and concisely what the problem is. Is it a robbery? An assault? A domestic disturbance? Provide essential details, such as the number of people involved, if weapons are present, and if anyone is injured.
4. ​Give Your Contact Details: Provide a reliable phone number so the operator or responding officers can call you back for clarification if needed.
5. ​Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to any instructions the operator gives you and follow them until help arrives. Do not hang up until the operator tells you to do so.

​In Conclusion

​The emergency numbers 112 and 199 are your national resources for reaching the Nigeria Police Force and emergency services. In states like Lagos, remember the local number, such as 767.

​Knowing these numbers and how to use them properly is a crucial step towards creating a safer environment for everyone. Make sure these numbers are saved in your phone and share this vital information with your family and friends.

​Would you like me to find a list of state-specific police emergency control room numbers for a particular Nigerian state?