FG deploys over 700 firefighters to boost emergency response capacity

The Federal Government has deployed more than 700 newly trained firefighters across the country in a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s emergency response capacity and safeguarding lives, property and critical infrastructure.

The deployment followed the passing-out parad oohe of Regular Course 6 cadet officers of the Federal Fire Service, held on Thursday in Jos, Plateau State.

Speaking at the ceremony, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, described the exercise as a major milestone in the transformation of the nation’s fire and emergency services, noting that it marked a shift from reactive firefighting to proactive national safety management.

According to the minister, the newly inducted firefighters would significantly expand the operational depth of the Federal Fire Service, improve response time to emergencies and enhance service delivery across communities nationwide.

“This passing-out parade will go down as the largest in the history of the Federal Fire Service.

“It signals a clear shift from reactive emergency response to proactive national safety, extending our operational depth, improving response time and enhancing service capacity to protect strategic assets, critical infrastructure and communities nationwide,” Tunji-Ojo said.

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He stressed that Nigeria still requires more firefighters, including specialists in areas such as Emergency Medical Services, fire inspection and hazardous materials management, in order to meet international safety standards.

Tunji-Ojo further emphasised that safety remains a critical component of national security, noting that effective emergency response systems contribute to economic growth and boost investor confidence.

The minister urged graduating officers to uphold the values of humility, discipline and responsibility in the discharge of their duties, reminding them that leadership is defined by service rather than rank.

“You should proudly wear your uniform, but with a sense of humility and honour. I urge you to go out there and make the Federal Fire Service proud and Nigeria great,” he said.

The minister was represented at the event by Abdulmalik Jubril, Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board

Also speaking, Caleb Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State, represented by his deputy, Josephine Piyo, underscored the importance of fire safety in the State and pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Fire Service to reduce fire disasters.

“As a government, we will continue to ensure the safety of the lives and property of citizens in the state,” Mutfwang said.

Earlier, Olumode Adeyemi, Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, said the Federal Government remains committed to building a robust firefighting infrastructure and deploying modern technology to enhance response time and prevent fire outbreaks.

Adeyemi disclosed that the newly deployed officers underwent months of rigorous training at the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency Training Camp in Jos, adding that they had been fully prepared for immediate deployment.

He said the cadets had been transformed from civilians into frontline uniformed personnel of the Federal Fire Service, equipped to handle firefighting and rescue operations across the country.

“You now bear the responsibility, authority and honour of the uniform entrusted with safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.

“I expect you to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and operational guidelines at all times in the discharge of your duties,” Adeyemi said.