The Controller General, Federal Fire Service (FFS), Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, has commended fire fighters for their efforts in addressing fire disasters nationwide.
Specifically, he commended officers for putting off fire at Cake Hot Restaurant, within River Plate Park, Wuse, Abuja, on January 1st.
A statement issued yesterday by DCF P.O. Abraham,
National PRO / Head, Corporate Services
Federal Fire Service, said crews arrived promptly and, in joint efforts with the FCT Fire Service, successfully contained the blaze, preventing what could have escalated into a major disaster in the busy recreational area. “While a section of the garden was affected, no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded. Property valued at approximately ₦1.5 billion was saved, with losses estimated at ₦500 million.”
He said preliminary findings linked the incident to objects thrown during New Year celebrations, reinforcing long-standing warnings against the use of fireworks.
“The Abuja incident echoes earlier cautions issued by CGF Adeyemi, who urged Nigerians to avoid fireworks, candles, and all forms of open flames indoors, particularly during the harmattan season when dry conditions allow fires to spread rapidly. He further warned about the dangers posed by electrical faults and power surges, advising citizens to always switch off and unplug electrical appliances when not in use or when leaving their homes, and to avoid overloading sockets and extension boxes.
“Beyond Abuja, firefighters were simultaneously responding to incidents in Lagos, Imo, Gombe, Kwara, and other locations nationwide, underscoring the importance of maintaining full manpower and readiness during peak-risk periods.
“However, the New Year also brought a tragic reminder of the consequences of preventable fires. In Yenagoa, firefighters responded to a residential fire involving a wooden structure. Although property worth about ₦10 million was saved, losses were estimated at ₦20 million. Sadly, the incident claimed the life of an 11-year-old child, with preliminary findings indicating the fire was caused by a candle left unattended.
“Describing the Yenagoa incident as deeply painful and avoidable, the Federal Fire Service stressed that many fire outbreaks result from everyday actions that can be prevented through simple caution.
“Controller General Adeyemi expressed sympathy to the owner of the affected restaurant in Abuja and heartfelt condolences to the family of the child lost in Yenagoa. “
The statement added that the controller urged Nigerians to treat harmattan-season fire safety warnings with the utmost seriousness and reminded the public to always switch off and unplug electrical appliances when not in use or when not around.
He further reiterated ban on use of fireworks, candles, and open flames indoors.
“Pay close attention to fire safety during celebrations and
report fires immediately to the Federal Fire Service on 08032005737, or promptly walk in to the nearest fire service station.
“As we have seen from Abuja to Yenagoa, fire can break out in seconds,” the CGF warned. “But with vigilance and adherence to basic safety measures, many of these incidents are preventable. Lives and livelihoods must always come before celebrations.
“From midnight into the early hours of the New Year, the rapid nationwide response of firefighters highlights a Service on guard, prepared, and committed; and a renewed call to all Nigerians that fire safety is a shared responsibility.”
