By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives has urged the immediate installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public buildings across Nigeria following a series of sudden deaths in government environments.
This resolution was a sequel to the adoption of a motion on Thursday during plenary sponsored by Rep. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, who raised concerns about the absence of critical emergency medical equipment in many public institutions despite the heavy daily movement of people through such facilities.
Rep. Shaga noted that cardiac arrest remains a major cause of sudden death globally and can occur without warning, often requiring rapid medical response within minutes to save lives. They observed that the chances of survival fall sharply when defibrillation is delayed, highlighting the importance of AEDs, which are designed to restore a normal heart rhythm during cardiac emergencies.
Concern was expressed over the widespread lack of emergency medical devices and trained responders in government offices, ministries, legislative buildings, courts and schools across the country.
The motion drew attention to several recent incidents involving sudden deaths in public offices. Among them was the case of a female public servant, Pharmacist Bilkisu, who collapsed and died while addressing colleagues in her office on 5 January 2026. Another incident involved Andrew Essien, a senior official of the Nigerian Customs Service, who slumped during a public engagement on 24 June 2024.
Lawmakers also referenced the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, who collapsed while carrying out official duties on 11 December 2025.
Members of the House noted that these incidents occurred in government environments where the presence of Automated External Defibrillators could have provided an opportunity for rapid medical intervention.
They also pointed out that in several countries, including the United States, Canada and the United Arab Emirates, the placement of defibrillators in public offices and government facilities forms part of standard public safety requirements.
Following the adoption of the motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to ensure the immediate installation of AEDs in federal government institutions, schools, National Youth Service Corps camps, religious centres and other public buildings across the country, including the National Assembly complex.
Ministries, Departments and Agencies were also encouraged to ensure the devices are clearly visible, properly maintained and supported by staff training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of defibrillators.
The House also mandated its committees on Health and Legislative Compliance to monitor and ensure the prompt implementation of the resolution.