National Safety Not Negotiable, Tunji-Ojo Tells Newly Decorated Fire Chief

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has charged the newly decorated Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Samuel Adeyemi Olumode, to lead with integrity, discipline, and results, stressing that national safety is not negotiable.

Olumode officially assumed duty on Wednesday, succeeding Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, who retired from service, marking the start of his tenure as the nation’s top fire officer.

The new CG was decorated at the Ministry of Interior by Dr. Tunji-Ojo, who described the appointment as a call to service and a mandate to transform the Fire Service.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. This is not just an office. It’s a call to service. National safety is not negotiable. The Fire Service must evolve, and that transformation begins with leadership,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

The Minister warned against complacency, urging Olumode to instill discipline, enforce accountability, and ensure the Service delivers prompt and effective responses to emergencies.

He further advised the CG to remain focused, resist undue pressure, and prioritise the interest of the nation.

“Nigerians deserve a Fire Service that works, that responds, and that saves lives. Any act of negligence, abuse of office, or corruption under your watch will not be tolerated. Lead with results, not rhetoric.

“Know where you are coming from, because if you don’t know where you are coming from, you will never appreciate where you are. If nobody can charge you, charge yourself. Call me anytime for support; we are one family. Be focused, be the leader and not the led,” Tunji-Ojo added.

In his acceptance speech, Olumode expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve at such a high level, pledging to uphold public trust and deliver on the expectations placed on him.

“This appointment is a great honour, and I do not take it lightly. I pledge my total loyalty and unwavering commitment to justify this confidence through diligent service, integrity, and purposeful leadership. I will not let Nigerians down,” he vowed.

Olumode praised Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s visionary leadership and reform-driven agenda, noting that it had created an enabling environment for growth within the Fire Service.

“Your leadership has created the enabling environment for growth and reform within the Fire Service. I assure you of my full cooperation and dedication as we pursue our shared vision of a more proactive, professional, and trusted Federal Fire Service,” he said.

The new CG outlined his priorities, including modernising the Service, improving emergency response times, and fostering a culture of discipline, efficiency, and public accountability.

This is as he urged officers and stakeholders to work together in building a Service Nigerians can be proud of.

“I stand here today with renewed determination to transform the Federal Fire Service into a model of excellence. One that Nigerians can be proud of. To my colleagues and the rank-and-file: your dedication is our strength. I count on your support as we move forward together,” Olumode said.

Acknowledging the contributions of his predecessor, Abdulganiyu, the Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the Secretary to the CDCFIB, Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (Rtd), and other stakeholders who played roles in his promotion, Olumode promised to engage with all stakeholders to ensure the Service becomes a model of efficiency, discipline, and public trust.