Nigeria has witnessed a troubling trend of devastating fire outbreaks, which have claimed lives and destroyed properties worth millions of naira. The most recent tragedies in Rivers State are a reminder of the urgent need for a fix-up of the country’s response to fire incidents.
The fire outbreak in Rivers State, which tragically resulted in the loss of five lives and the destruction of 120 vehicles, is just one out of many cases where the fire service didn’t respond promptly and effectively. Despite desperate calls for assistance, the fire service didn’t respond positively.
In 2024 so far, several fire incidents have been recorded, including the Panteka market fire in Rigasa, Kaduna, on January 17, which destroyed the timber section of the market as confirmed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Other incidents involved a building fire at Tudun Wada Quarters in Kano, causing seven casualties from smoke inhalation, and another at Horo Eastern by-pass depot resulting in one fatality.
There have also been fire incidents in the Bodija area of Ibadan on January 16, the IC World Emporia blaze in Gwarimpa, in the Federal Capital Territory on January 17, and the Sobi Hospital outbreak in Ilorin, Kwara State, on January 2.
In 2023, the Lagos State Fire Service recorded 1,642 fire incidents between January and June, with 42 persons killed. The Kaduna State Fire Service also recorded 325 fire outbreaks, with 17 persons rescued, 26 injured, and 12 deaths.
The Fire Service Act mandates the fire service to extinguish, control, and prevent fires, as well as to save and protect lives and property. On the website of the Federal Fire Service, it is stated in agreement to this Act that they perform this duty around the clock, 24 hours, seven days a week.
With over 119 years of service and the relentless news of fire incidents lately, it is unclear if these standards are upheld.
Moreover, the absence of proactive measures to educate the public on fire prevention worsens the problem. While the Fire Service Act emphasises the importance of public awareness initiatives, the Federal Fire Service’s near-zero effort in this regard is deeply concerning.
To address this problem, urgent reforms are needed. Firstly, there must be a concerted effort to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of the fire service, including the establishment of fire stations near residential areas. Accessibility to fire services is paramount in ensuring timely response and effective containment of fire outbreaks.
Public awareness campaigns must also be prioritised to educate citizens on fire safety measures and emergency response protocols. Empowering communities with the knowledge and resources to prevent and manage fire incidents is crucial in mitigating risks and minimizing casualties.
As a nation, we cannot afford to wait for more tragedies to happen before taking action. The protection of lives and properties must be prioritized, with comprehensive reforms implemented to strengthen our fire service and safeguard our communities.