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From Fred Itua, Abuja
A retired military general and a software engineer have unveiled iLert247, a real-time emergency response application designed to help address terrorism, banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria.
The platform was developed in the United Kingdom by a software engineer, Joseph Ekeh. It is meant to bridge gaps in community-level intelligence and emergency dispatch, and to shorten response times when people are in danger.
Ekeh said the system has three linked components. These are the iLert247 mobile application for users, the iSmart display dashboard for command centres, and the iLert SOS network, which routes real-time data directly to security agencies.
He said a user can raise an alarm by double-tapping a red button on the phone. The app then automatically sends the user’s exact GPS coordinates and live satellite imagery to control centres and law enforcement units, with no need for a voice call.
He described this as critical in silent or high-risk situations. Users can also select the type of threat, such as robbery, terrorism or kidnapping. They can upload voice recordings, photographs or video when conditions allow.
On speed, Ekeh said conventional international emergency channels typically take 13 to 15 seconds to establish initial voice contact.
He said iLert247 processes a distress signal and broadcasts the user’s location to nearby security personnel in two seconds or less.
He added that recent global test runs, using near-real-time satellite tracking and distribution of the app’s installation file (APK), had verified its ability to pinpoint users’ locations across international borders.
Major General Nicholas Rogers (rtd), a former Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, is collaborating on the strategic deployment. He said technology must reinforce traditional security operations.
He said satellite geolocation tools could protect vulnerable rural communities, which are frequent targets of armed groups. He added that they could also help prevent ambushes on troops by giving security forces early situational awareness.
Rogers said the project team is engaging stakeholders to integrate the platform into national security structures. Outreach is under way with the Ministry of Defence, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as several state governments. Partnership discussions are ongoing with the Plateau State Government.
The developers called on federal and state governments to prioritise dedicated funding and technology integration to equip frontline personnel and improve response readiness across the 36 states.
The public rollout is scheduled for October 8, when the app is expected to be available on major global app stores.
