Over 100 lives lost, ₦67.1bn assets destroyed by Fire in 2024 – FFS
…as Federal Fire Chief calls for urgent reforms, technological advances
By Ukpono Ukpong
The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has revealed alarming statistics on fire incidents across Nigeria in 2024, reporting over 100 lives lost and property worth ₦67.1 billion destroyed.
However, the service successfully saved assets valued at ₦1.94 trillion and rescued 30,890 lives.
Addresing journalists in Abuja during a media briefing, the Controller General of the FFS, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, expressed grief over the losses.
He also highlighted the increasing frequency of gas and petrol tanker explosions, as well as filling station fires, and called for stricter safety protocols.
Speaking further, Engr. Jaji urged Nigerians to remain vigilant during the harmattan season, when dry conditions increase the risk of fire outbreaks.
The FFS chief appealed to fuel station operators, gas cylinder users, and the general public to strictly adhere to safety protocols.
“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 station, gas cylinders consumers and the general public to follow safety protocols and regulations.
“In the year 2024, Federal Fire Service effectively saved property worth N1.94 trillion and recorded an estimated property loss of N67.1 Billion. In the same year, 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.
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“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), Fire Alarm App known as N-Alert.”
To address fire incidents more effectively, Jaji revealed that FFS has expanded its presence to senatorial zones in states like Edo, Kebbi, Bayelsa, Kaduna, and Kwara, with plans to cover more zones. The service is also establishing new fire stations in Abuja, including areas like Maitama, Guzape, and Asokoro, to reduce response times.
The FFS chief expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for their unwavering support.
He praised their commitment to the safety of lives and property through initiatives like the procurement of state-of-the-art firefighting equipment and the remodeling of the National Fire Academy in Sheda.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces who remains committed to the safety of lives and property of the Nation in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda, made significant strides such as graciously approving the procurement of state-of- the-art firefighting appliances, Remodeling of the National Fire Academy Sheda.
“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 President Bola Tinubu.”
Furthermore, Jaji emphasized the urgent need for the repeal and re-enactment of the Fire Service Act of 1963, which he described as obsolete. He urged the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Fire Service Bill currently under consideration.
“It is my sincere prayer that other key stakeholders will come together to join hands with the 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.” Jaji stated.
