Interior Minister Announces Plans To Repeal Outdated 1963 Fire Service Act

Interior Minister Announces Plans To Repeal Outdated 1963 Fire Service Act

The Federal Government has unveiled its intention to repeal the outdated 1963 Fire Service Act, citing its irrelevance in the current context. Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made this announcement during the groundbreaking ceremony for the remodeling and upgrading of the National Fire Academy in Sheda, Kwali, Abuja…………CONTINUE READING

Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the evolving role of the Federal Fire Service (FFS) in national security, extending beyond firefighting to encompass rescue operations and security duties. He expressed regret over the FFS’s dormancy in past years, stressing the need to provide Nigerians with exemplary fire and rescue services.

Highlighting the government’s constitutional obligation to safeguard lives and property, the Minister underscored the imperative of updating fire service legislation, deeming the current 1963 law obsolete. He stressed the disparity between the contemporary global scope of fire services and the outdated provisions of the existing law, advocating for a forward-looking legislative framework.

Furthermore, Dr. Tunji-Ojo outlined plans to establish fire service academies in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, aiming to enhance the sector’s capacity and foster private sector participation. He emphasized the importance of equipping fire service personnel with cutting-edge knowledge, positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in rescue operations.

The Controller General of Fire, Jaji Olola Abdulganiyu, lauded the government’s initiative to revamp the National Fire Academy, citing its pivotal role in training personnel from various sectors, including the military and paramilitary agencies. He revealed requests for collaboration and training from both domestic and international entities, underscoring Nigeria’s potential to provide expertise in firefighting and rescue operations.

Looking ahead, the completion of the remodeling project is slated for within a year, with plans for President Bola Tinubu to commission it as part of his second-year anniversary activities. The overarching goal remains to ensure comprehensive rescue assurance for Nigeria’s populace, with a keen focus on capacity building and collaboration across sectors.

In summary, the Federal Government’s decision to repeal the antiquated Fire Service Act marks a pivotal step towards modernizing Nigeria’s fire and rescue services, aligning them with contemporary global standards and fostering national security and resilience

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