By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Controller of the FCT Fire Service, Engr. Adebayo Ademola Zacchaeus has disclosed that after 23 years of existence, the FCT Fire Service still has the challenge of overused and aging fire trucks not being enough to serve the growing population in the territory.
Speaking at the 23rd anniversary of the FCT Fire Service on Tuesday in Abuja, Engr. Zacchaeus said, “One of our major concerns is the overuse and aging of our firefighting trucks. Many of our trucks have been in service far beyond their optimal lifespan; the cost of keeping them functional through constant maintenance continues to rise, and this is no longer economical.”
He stated that the FCT Fire Service is also facing a shortage of manpower, which is not enough to meet up with the rapid emergency expansion of emerging new districts in the FCT.
“However, our personnel strength and resources have not grown proportionally this expansion”, he noted.
Engr. Zacchaeus also called for the building of more functional fire stations in every district.
“Every district should ideally have a functional fire station for quick response to emergencies. Unfortunately, several areas still lack
such a presence.”
“We therefore appeal that more attention be given to developing fire stations in key districts such as Wuse, Guzape, Mpape, Jikwoyi, Orozo, Karshi, Karsana, Idu, Karimo, and Lugbe, among others.”
” Each of these locations is critical to the safety network of our ever-growing capital city.”
He called for the completion of roads that lead to Kaura Fire Station, the stations at Utako, Mbora, and Gaduwa Fire Stations , currently under construction, which will significantly improve fire coverage and protection for residents if speedily completed.
“I therefore urge all residents to exercise maximum caution: avoid open fires, refrain from burning refuse, and ensure electrical appliances are properly handled.”
The Fire Service will intensify its Dry Season Fire Prevention Campaigns across estates, communities, and institutions throughout the FCT, he assured.
