The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has called for the urgent reform of Nigeria’s fire service law, describing the existing legislation as outdated and inadequate for modern rescue operations.
Speaking on Thursday at the decoration of the new Comptroller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Adeyemi, in Abuja, Tunji-Ojo lamented that the law governing the service was enacted more than six decades ago.
“I’m happy the National Assembly is here. The National Assembly is already working on the fire service law because the fire service act that we have at the moment is over 60 years old. We need to, of course, improve the rescue operations.”
The minister stressed that the efficiency of the fire service should be judged by its ability to prevent loss of life and property.
“Fire Service is one of the most impactful agencies in this country. Every time there’s a fire incident and rescue operation and someone dies, it’s a failure on the Fire Service. Your job is to prevent fire — you are as important to life as oxygen can be,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo also advised the new fire service boss not to expect universal approval in the course of his work.
He said, “You are 100% of my supporter, but you don’t expect 100% support of your men. It’s the truth. If you are waiting for 100% support, you will never realise it.
“Leadership is not a popularity contest. Leadership is not about who likes what you say. Leadership is the conviction of one’s heart.”
He urged officers to place priority on prevention, mitigation, and public responsibility, noting that “these are as important to life as the oxygen that we breathe.”
In his acceptance speech, Adeyemi promised to work with all stakeholders to transform the Federal Fire Service.
He appreciated the president and minister for his appointment.
Adeyemi said, “With profound humility and a heart full of gratitude, I stand before you today on this historic occasion of my decoration as the Comptroller-General of the Federal Fire Service. This appointment is a great honour, and I do not take it lightly. I pledge my total loyalty and unwavering commitment to justifying this confidence through diligent service, integrity, and purposeful leadership.”
