The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, has imposed a strict no-leave, no-holiday policy on all personnel nationwide during the harmattan season and yuletide period to ensure maximum readiness against fire outbreaks.
The directive, aimed at maintaining full operational alertness amid the dry season’s heightened risks, was announced during a virtual meeting with Zonal Controllers, where Adeyemi officially launched the nationwide Harmattan Fire Safety Campaign.
Speaking at the meeting, the CG warned the public against using fireworks, bush burning, and unsafe handling of flammable materials, noting that such acts drastically elevate fire dangers in the prevailing dry, windy conditions. He stressed that prevention is the best approach to protecting lives, property, and national infrastructure.
To bolster preparedness, Adeyemi ordered all zones to promptly report the status of functional firefighting equipment. He also revealed plans to set up a dedicated Harmattan Monitoring Task Force for incident tracking, compliance enforcement, and coordinated responses.
Zonal and state commands were further instructed to carry out mandatory fire safety audits at worship centres, especially ahead of festive gatherings, while ramping up public awareness drives.
Emphasising collaboration, the Controller General directed units to partner closely with other security and emergency agencies at state levels, sharing intelligence for better prevention, early detection, and swift intervention.
The Federal Fire Service reiterated its commitment to staying vigilant and proactive in safeguarding Nigerians during this high-risk period.
