United Against Fire Hazards: NIHA, Federal Fire Service Partner To Strengthen Fire Prevention and Response in Nigeria

In a bid to combat the recurring fire outbreaks plaguing Nigeria, the Nigerian Humanitarian Action (NIHA) has joined forces with the Federal Fire Service for the Nigeria Fire Prevention Week and Expo, as well as its International Flagship Programme in the United States.

Nigeria’s fire service received a significant allocation of 51.74 billion naira in 2023, yet recent fire incidents have raised concerns about the service’s effectiveness. The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to provide adequate funding and establish fire stations in all 774 Local Government Areas.

The NIHA-Federal Fire Service collaboration seeks to enhance fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices. This partnership is a crucial step towards mitigating fire incidents in Nigeria and ensuring the safety of citizens and properties.

Dr Kletsaint Akor, Chairman of NIHA and proponents council of Nigeria Fire Prevention week, the joint effort, NIHA and the Federal Fire will bolster fire safety management across the country, thereby reducing property damage and loss of life.

This partnership is a testament to the commitment of both organizations to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians, He said

According to Dr. Akor, Despite significant allocations to the Federal Fire Service, the situation has shown little improvement in 2023, with Lagos State Fire Service reporting 1,642 fire incidents between January and June, resulting in 42 fatalities.

The crisis has continued into 2024, with several devastating fire incidents reported across the country. On January 17, a massive fire destroyed the timber section of the Panteka market in Kaduna, resulting in significant losses. Other incidents include a building fire at Tudun Wada Quarters in Kano, which caused seven casualties due to smoke inhalation, and a fire at Horo Eastern by-pass depot, resulting in one fatality.

The alarming rate of fire incidents in Nigeria, particularly during the dry season from November to March, has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Federal Fire Service, despite receiving 51.74 billion naira in 2023. The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to fund the Federal Fire Service adequately and establish fire stations in all 774 Local Government Areas.

The partnership will also strengthen fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices. This collaboration is crucial in mitigating fire incidents in Nigeria and ensuring the safety of citizens and properties.