Major Boost: Fire Service Expands to Campuses, Constituencies, Senatorial Districts

The Federal Fire Service has unveiled plans to broaden its operational scope beyond firefighting to include emergency medical response, a move aimed at improving rescue services and saving more lives across the country.

Controller General of the Service, Adeyemi Samuel Olumode, disclosed this in an exclusive interview with the Democracy Newsline Newspaper, Olugbemi Femi.

Olumode said the new direction will allow Nigerians to access the service not only during fire outbreaks but also in medical emergencies, significantly expanding its relevance and impact.

“I don’t want fire service to be seen as firefighting alone,” he stated.

He explained that the initiative is part of broader reforms designed to strengthen the agency’s capacity, improve emergency response time, and enhance public safety nationwide.

Highlighting recent achievements, the Controller General revealed that the service has promoted 2,263 personnel, refurbished 40 firefighting trucks, and established partnerships with organisations such as the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the TETFund.

Olumode also announced plans to establish fire service posts in all tertiary institutions across Nigeria, as well as the construction of a new corporate headquarters to support operational efficiency.

In addition, he disclosed that efforts are underway to extend the service’s presence to all 109 senatorial districts in the country, a move expected to significantly improve emergency coverage and response capabilities.

He further noted that the Federal Fire Service Act is currently being reviewed to enhance revenue generation and create employment opportunities within the sector.

According to him, the combined reforms are expected to boost operational efficiency, reduce response time, and ultimately save more lives across Nigeria.