1700 Lives, ₦300b Worth Of Properties Saved – Fire Service Gives Q1 Report

The Federal Fire Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening fire safety systems nationwide, highlighting major reforms, improved personnel welfare, and significant operational gains as Nigeria commemorates International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD) 2026.

The Controller General, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, MBA, MDRM, ACTI, FCNA, made this known during the Service’s official commemoration themed “Courage Under Fire: Recognising the Sacrifices and Realities of Firefighting.”

He disclosed that within the first quarter of 2026, the Service responded to hundreds of incidents, saving over 1,700 lives and protecting properties valued at more than ₦300 billion, underscoring the growing impact of ongoing reforms and operational improvements.

As part of efforts to reposition the Service, the Controller General outlined key policy-driven initiatives implemented under his leadership. These include one of the most extensive promotion exercises in recent history, with over 2,600 officers elevated across ranks to address long-standing career stagnation and improve morale.

In strengthening capacity, over 700 cadet officers have been trained and inducted, alongside specialised programmes such as the Haskebiu Training Programme, Counter-Ambush Intelligence and Movement Security Course, and other strategic courses aimed at enhancing operational competence and leadership.

Reinforcing the Service’s commitment to operational safety, the Controller General assured that firefighters’ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be improved, stressing that no firefighter will be deployed to any incident without adequate protection.

On personnel welfare, the Service has introduced structured support systems including interest-free loan schemes, expanded medical coverage for injuries and health-related issues, and enhanced insurance packages covering death, injury, and retirement benefits. The Controller General also approved repatriation support for retired officers, reinforcing post-service welfare.

The Service has further improved working conditions through facility renovations and enhanced workplace maintenance, alongside expanded health and wellness programmes, including targeted medical outreach and screenings for personnel.

To institutionalise recognition and accountability, the Controller General announced the inauguration of the Controller General’s Awards Committee, which will oversee formal recognition of gallantry, professionalism, and outstanding service within the ranks.

The event featured a public lecture delivered by Professor Okey Ikechukwu, mni, and was attended by senior government officials, stakeholders, and members of the public.

Beyond internal reforms, the Controller General called for legislative and stakeholder support to strengthen national fire safety infrastructure. He urged members of the National Assembly to fast-track the repeal and enactment of the Federal Fire Service and Rescue Act, and to prioritise the establishment of fire stations within constituency projects to improve coverage and reduce response time.

He also called on corporate organisations to integrate fire safety support into their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The Service emphasised that public cooperation remains critical to effective emergency response, urging citizens to comply with safety protocols, give way to emergency vehicles, and avoid interference at incident scenes.

The event featured the unveiling of the International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD) brooch, decoration of senior officers, and the inauguration of the Controller General’s Awards Committee.

Credit: P.O. Abraham, MPhil, MLCG, BL, LLB, ANIPR, National PRO / Head, Corporate Services, Federal Fire Service Headquarters