FG to Establish Fire Stations in 109 Senatorial Districts

Crime Diary, Environment, Weather

KANO, NIGERIA — The Federal Government has announced plans to establish fire stations in all 109 senatorial districts across the country as part of efforts to mitigate fire disasters and strengthen emergency response.

Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Dr Olumode Samuel-Adeyemi, disclosed this during an on-the-spot assessment of the Singer Market in Kano State, following the February 14 fire incident.

Samuel-Adeyemi said a dedicated fire post would be established at Singer Market to curb recurring outbreaks. He conveyed the condolences of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to the government and people of Kano State, particularly traders who lost lives and property worth billions of naira.

Strengthening Response and Prevention

The CG explained that the initiative is part of a broader plan to:

• Expand fire coverage nationwide through senatorial and local government fire stations.
• Construct water reservoirs in major markets to ensure quick access to water during emergencies.
• Collaborate with the Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for crowd control during incidents.
• Intensify public education and inspections through the Inspectorate and Enforcement Unit to enforce compliance with fire safety standards.

He identified faulty electrical wiring, unsafe fuel storage, cooking inside shops, use of generators, lithium battery installations, and unattended appliances as major causes of market fires.

Samuel-Adeyemi also noted that although firefighters arrived at Singer Market within 20 minutes, access was delayed due to obstructed roads. He appealed to Nigerians to give right of way to fire trucks during emergencies.

Legislative Backing

The CG added that the proposed amendment of the Fire Service Act would strengthen enforcement powers, including the authority to seal premises that fail to install required fire safety equipment.

He commended the Kano State Fire Service and other emergency agencies for their cooperation and assured continued federal support in equipment and training.