The Federal Government has deployed over 700 newly trained firefighters across the country, marking what officials described as the largest passing-out parade in the history of the Federal Fire Service.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Regular Course 6 Cadet Officers in Jos, Plateau State, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He noted that the deployment signals a shift from reactive emergency response to proactive national preparedness, aimed at improving response times, extending operational depth, and enhancing service capacity to safeguard strategic assets, critical infrastructure, and communities nationwide.
Ojo, represented by Major-General Abdulmalik Jubril (rtd), Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, urged the new officers to wear their uniforms with pride, humility, and honor, stressing that leadership is defined by responsibility rather than rank. He added that Nigeria requires firefighters with specialized skills in emergency medical services, hazardous materials handling, and fire inspection to meet international standards.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Deputy, Josephine Piyo, commended the initiative and pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Fire Service to curb fire disasters in the state.
Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, revealed that the government is working to establish a robust firefighting infrastructure, leveraging technology to enhance response times and prevent outbreaks. He explained that the cadets underwent months of rigorous training at the NDLEA Training Camp in Jos and are now fully qualified for immediate deployment in firefighting and rescue operations.
Adeyemi charged the officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and operational discipline, reminding them of the honor and responsibility that comes with safeguarding lives and property across Nigeria.
This deployment is expected to significantly strengthen Nigeria’s firefighting capacity, improve disaster response, and boost public confidence in national safety systems.
By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
