The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Samuel Olumode Adeyemi, has vowed to reposition the service in line with global best practices.
The CG stated this during a working visit to the Metropolitan Fire Station in Kubwa, Abuja, on Thursday.
The visit, which included the inspection of Wuse Fire Station, was to strengthen operational readiness, improve service delivery, and engage with frontline officers to enhance fire safety and emergency response in the Federal Capital Territory.
Olumode warned that negligence or failure to discharge responsibilities by staff would not be tolerated.
‘Absenteeism and negligence of duty will not be tolerated. The Federal Fire Service should not be seen as fighting fire alone. Our work is to save lives and property.
‘We will provide ambulances so that people can take their families and loved ones to the hospital without any delay.
‘Many people are willing to join this job. Therefore, we should wear our badge and uniform with pride. Any staff found guilty of job racketeering will be dismissed.’
The Controller General said that he has mapped out the major challenges facing the service, saying each of them would be dealt with accordingly.
He stated, ‘We are working with relevant stakeholders to ease the structural challenges facing the service. I am determined to change the narratives at the Federal Fire Service.
‘When I came in, I made it clear that staff welfare is my priority. This will ensure effective service delivery. Firemen must be motivated to achieve our targeted goal. It is through this that they can put in their best,’ he said.