ABUJA – The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service has revealed that it saved seven lives and property valued at ₦8.2 billion from 271 fire outbreaks within Abuja between January and August 2024.
However, the service also reported that property worth ₦1.9 billion was lost to fire within the same period.
This was disclosed by the Acting Director/Controller of the FCT Fire Service, Engr. Adebayo Amiola, during a press briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
Amiola emphasized the importance of preventive measures, particularly in markets, where fire outbreaks tend to be frequent.
“Seeping in the market has been banned in all the markets in FCT, as it is an offence which is punishable,” Amiola stated, adding that the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has given full ministerial backing to enforce these regulations. Markets or plazas that do not comply with these directives face the risk of being sealed off.
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Amiola stressed that fire trucks should be given the right of way during emergencies, as any delay could lead to more lives and property being lost.
“We have also directed market managers to ensure that nobody blocks access roads by placing goods or erecting make-shift shops,” he noted.
The director commended the FCT Minister for his relentless efforts to safeguard lives and properties in the FCT. He also outlined the service’s upcoming fire prevention initiatives, including a Fire Safety Week and awareness campaigns in schools and Area Councils, aimed at educating the public on fire safety, particularly during the dry season.
“Our operatives will continue to work tirelessly to reduce the rate of exposure to fire disasters in the Territory,” Amiola concluded, vowing to enhance the service’s capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies.
The FCT Fire Service’s commitment to reducing fire outbreaks and promoting safety awareness promises to bring greater peace of mind to residents as they prepare for the dry season.
