The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Abdulganiyu O. Jaji, has disclosed that over 100 lives were lost to fire disasters in 2024, while property worth N67.1 billion were destroyed nationwide.
The agency, while paying condolences to the families that lost their loved ones, also revealed that it effectively saved property worth N1.94trn, while responding to fire and other emergencies during which 30, 890 lives were saved.
Addressing newsmen Friday in Abuja, Engr. Jaji appealed to all operators of fuel stations, petrol tankers, and gas refilling stations, gas cylinders consumers and the general public to follow safety protocols and regulations, especially during the on-going harmattan season.
He said, “Currently, we are in the harmattan season when humidity is low and the risk of static spark or gas explosion can spread rapidly. Fire is a delicate and dynamic force that requires us to be more cautious and vigilant.
“At this point, I implore all operators of fuel stations, petrol tankers, gas refilling stations, gas cylinders consumers and the general public to follow safety protocols and regulations.
“In the year 2024, the Federal Fire Service effectively saved property worth N1.94 trillion and recorded an estimated property loss of N67.1 billion. In the same year, the Federal Fire Service responded to fire and other emergencies during which 30,890 lives were saved while over 100 lives were lost. As fellow Nigerians, we share in this grief and commiserate with the bereaved families and their loved ones.
“This year, we will continue to advance our goals through robust strategies, operational efficiency and proactive moves. We will also focus on raising awareness, improving response time using cutting edge technologies such as the National Fire Detection and Alarm System (NAFDAS), and the Fire Alarm App known as N-Alert.”
While appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for their support, Jamie gave the assurance that the agency would build Fire stations in Lugbe, Maitama, Guzape, among many other locations in 2025 to reduce response time to disasters across the country.
“Today, I re-affirm my commitment that the Federal Fire Service will not falter in our mandate. We will ensure that public trust and investments are met with commendable results.
“Our success stories for the year 2024 would not be complete without giving accolades to the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, our game-changer, chief strategist, the leader, whose result-oriented policies had led to positive and commendable results that are in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“It is my sincere prayer that other key stakeholders will come together to join hands with the Honourable Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in facilitating the repeal and re-enactment of the current Fire Service Act of 1963, which has become outdated. If this is achieved, it will reposition the Service to enhance effective service delivery.”