Fire Service Boss Urges NASS to Fast-Track Rescue Act

By Anan Geolengs

The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Olumide Samuel, has called on the National Assembly to fast-track the repeal and enactment of the Federal Fire Service and Rescue Act.
Olumide made the call on Monday in Abuja during the International Firefighters’ Day 2026.

He also urged the National Assembly to ensure the establishment of fire stations through constituency projects, noting that this would significantly increase coverage and reduce emergency response time.

At the event, themed “Courage Under Fire: Recognising the Sacrifices and Realities of Firefighting,” the Controller-General called on corporate organisations to include the Fire Service in their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

He said, “The theme speaks directly to the heart of our profession because today is not merely ceremonial. It is reflective. It is emotional. And above all, it is truthful.

“It speaks to the unseen realities behind the uniform. It speaks to the courage required not only in moments of fire but in the quiet aftermath. It reminds us that the sacrifices of firefighters extend far beyond what the public often sees.

“Behind every siren is a human being. Behind every emergency call is a family waiting. And behind every successful rescue is a story of risk, resilience, and responsibility that is rarely told.

“Firefighting is not merely a career; it is a lifelong commitment to humanity. It demands that you move toward danger when instinct tells you to retreat. It demands calm in chaos, strength in uncertainty, and compassion in moments of profound loss.

“Across Nigeria, our firefighters continue to embody these values daily, responding to emergencies in densely populated cities, industrial environments, highways, and challenging terrains. They do this not for recognition but because duty calls.”

Speaking further, he said that under his leadership, deliberate and measurable steps are being taken to prioritise not only the performance of personnel but also their welfare, dignity, and long-term well-being.

“In recognition of this, we have strengthened a system that ensures our personnel are supported, motivated, and fairly treated.

“Through one of the most extensive promotion exercises in recent history, over 2,600 officers were elevated across ranks, restoring career progression, boosting morale, and eliminating long-standing stagnation within the Service.”