The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming the Federal Fire Service into a full-fledged fire and rescue service, stressing the need for a new legal framework to support modern operations.
The Minister made this known at the 2026 National Fire Safety Week in Abuja, themed “Building a Fire-Resilient Nigeria: One Community at a Time.”
Dr. Tunji-Ojo identified the over 60-year-old Fire Service Act as a major obstacle to reform, noting that the outdated law cannot support the demands of modern firefighting and emergency response.
He called for stronger fire safety inspections, enforcement of safety codes and the integration of rescue techniques and basic life-saving skills into school curricula.
According to him, the National Fire Academy in Sheda, FCT, is 85 per cent complete and is expected to be ready by year-end, while the fire hydrant facility will also be completed by December.
The Minister further disclosed that over 50,000 outstanding promotions had been cleared across the Ministry’s paramilitary agencies, with the 2026 promotion exercise already concluded. He added that about 5,000 new Federal Fire Service recruits are currently undergoing final screening and documentation.
He also noted that Fire Service commands have increased from six to 18, with officers’ risk allowances approved, assuring personnel of the government’s recognition of their sacrifices and commitment to national safety.
FG to Transform Federal Fire Service into Full-fledged Fire and Rescue Service — Tunji-Ojo
