FG deploys 700 firefighters nationwide

The Federal Government has deployed over 700 newly trained firefighters across the country, underscoring its commitment to protecting lives and property.

Speaking on Thursday at the passing-out parade of Regular Course 6 cadet officers in Jos, Plateau State, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the deployment marked a significant shift towards proactive national fire safety, with improved operational depth, faster response times and enhanced service capacity to protect strategic assets, critical infrastructure and communities nationwide.

This passing-out parade will go down as the largest in the history of the Federal Fire Service. It signals a clear shift from reactive emergency response to proactive national fire safety, extending our operational depth, improving response time and enhancing our capacity to protect strategic assets, critical infrastructure and communities across the country,” he said.

The minister noted that Nigeria requires more firefighters, including specialists in emergency medical services, fire inspection and hazardous materials management, to meet international standards.

He emphasised that safety is a national security priority that contributes to economic growth and strengthens investor confidence.

He urged the newly deployed firefighters to wear their uniforms with pride, humility and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that leadership is defined by service rather than rank.

You should proudly wear your uniform, but with humility and honour. I urge you to go out there, make the Federal Fire Service proud and make Nigeria proud,” Tunji-Ojo said.

The minister was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, Major-General Abdulmalik Jubril (rtd).

Also speaking at the event, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, highlighted the importance of fire safety in the state.

Represented by his deputy, Josephine Piyo, the governor said the state government would continue to collaborate with the Federal Fire Service to reduce incidents of fire disasters.

“As a government, we will continue to ensure the safety of lives and property of citizens in the state,” the deputy governor said.

Earlier, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, said the government plans to establish a robust firefighting infrastructure nationwide, leveraging technology to enhance response times and prevent fire outbreaks.