The Federal Government has commenced the deployment of more than 700 freshly trained firefighters across the nation. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to ensuring safety and protecting both lives and properties.
During a ceremony marking the passing-out parade for Regular Course 6 cadet officers in Jos, Plateau State on Thursday, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated that this deployment signifies a pivotal move towards a more proactive approach to national fire safety. The enhanced capabilities will lead to faster response times and bolster the service's ability to safeguard crucial infrastructure and communities across Nigeria.
"This passing-out parade will be remembered as the largest in the history of the Federal Fire Service. It represents a decisive transition from merely responding to emergencies to fostering a proactive fire safety culture that emphasizes operational depth and quick response, as well as improving our capability to protect vital assets and community safety nationwide," he remarked.
The minister pointed out that Nigeria urgently needs more firefighters, particularly those trained in emergency medical response, fire inspections, and hazardous materials management, to align with global safety standards.
He further underlined that safety is integral to national security, which in turn supports economic growth and builds investor trust.
Tunji-Ojo encouraged the newly inducted firefighters to take pride in their uniforms, urging them to serve with humility and a sense of duty, emphasizing that true leadership is defined by service over rank.
"Wear your uniforms proudly, but with humility and dignity. I challenge you to uphold the standards of the Federal Fire Service and make Nigeria proud," he concluded.
The minister was represented at this event by the acting Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board, Major- General Abdulmalik Jubril (retired).
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, also spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing the significance of fire safety in the state. He was represented by his deputy, Josephine Piyo, who reaffirmed the state government's resolve to work closely with the Federal Fire Service to mitigate fire-related disasters.
"Our administration will continue to prioritize the protection of lives and property in the state," the deputy governor stated.
Earlier, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, indicated that the government plans to develop robust firefighting infrastructure throughout the country, utilizing technology to enhance response capabilities and prevent fire outbreaks.
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