****Saves N300bn, 1,700 lives in four months

The Federal Government has called on the public to stop interfering at emergency scenes, warning that crowd obstruction and the failure to give way to fire engines are putting lives and properties at significant risk.

Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Olumode Adeyemi, made the call during a ceremony to mark International Firefighters’ Day 2026.

Speaking on the theme ‘Courage Under Fire: Recognising the Sacrifices and Realities of Firefighting,’ Adeyemi urged citizens to act as partners in safety rather than obstacles.

“When you see a fire truck on duty, please give way, every second counts and your cooperation can mean the difference between life and loss,” the Controller General stated.

He expressed concern over the unseen realities and dangers faced by personnel, noting that crowd interference often complicates already perilous situations.

He said that “At emergency scenes, allow firefighters to do their work. Avoid crowding, interference, or actions that may put lives at greater risk.

“Respect safety perimeters and follow instructions given by emergency personnel. Support them, do not obstruct them.”

The FFS chief highlighted the immense pressure on the service, revealing that in the first quarter of 2026 alone, firefighters responded to hundreds of incidents, saving over 1,700 lives and protecting properties valued at more than N300 billion.

“Behind every siren is a human being, behind every emergency call is a family waiting.
“Firefighting is not merely a career, it is a lifelong commitment to humanity. It demands that you move toward danger when instinct tells you to retreat, the CG explained.

To address the physical and emotional toll on officers, the Controller General announced a series of sweeping welfare reforms which include the promotion of over 2,600 officers to eliminate career stagnation, the induction of 700 new cadets in Jos, and the introduction of interest free loans and enhanced medical cover for injuries sustained in the line of duty.

“The realities of firefighting do not end at the fire scene. They follow our officers home. They live in memory, in injury, and sometimes in silence,” he said, adding that the service has now approved repatriation expenses for retired officers to ensure they exit with dignity.

Adeyemi also used the occasion to inaugurate the “Controller General’s Awards Committee,” a formal platform designed to identify and honour gallantry and professionalism within the ranks.

He reminded Nigerians that firefighters are fellow citizens who deserve empathy. “Encourage them, do not endanger them. A simple act of respect, patience, or appreciation goes a long way.”

Commenting on the importance of the CG’s Award in boosting officers morale, efficiency and professionalism, President, Fire Disaster and Safety, Dr. Ahmed Badanga, enjoined Nigerians to continue to support fire safety efforts and firefighters in the line of duty.

He noted that a National Fire Fighting Hero Award would make a great impact in honouring fire fighters in Nigeria.

“Our firefighters should be recognised and honoured as they are in other climes,” he adds.