By Tobias Lengnan Dapam
The Controller General, Federal Fire Service (FFS) Samuel Olumode Adeyemi, has told award recipients at the agency and other stakeholders, to serve as ambassadors of fire safety in their homes, offices, and communities.
Adeyemi stated this on Friday during the closing ceremony of National Fire Safety Week.
Represented by DCG Aliyu Tambari, the Fire boss said, “Today’s closing ceremony, featuring both investitures and the presentation of certificates, is an important milestone in that journey. We are honouring individuals and institutions that have demonstrated outstanding support for fire safety initiatives, excellence in compliance, and leadership in risk reduction.
“These awards are not mere decorations, they represent national service, civic responsibility, and partnership in saving lives.
To the participants receiving certificates, I say congratulations.
“These certificates are intended to inspire you not only to protect yourselves but also for you to carry the responsibility of helping us build the culture of prevention that our nation urgently needs.
“We also hope this contributes to creating a society that is not averse to fire safety preparedness, but one that embraces a proactive, safety-conscious mindset in all personal and official endeavours.
“The institutions being honoured with Certificates and Awards of recognition have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fire safety compliance and consistent collaboration with the Federal Fire Service. Their proactive engagement, adherence to safety standards, and support for our nationwide sensitization efforts clearly set them apart. We are proud to acknowledge their contributions, which reflect true partnership and a shared dedication to safeguarding lives and property across Nigeria.”
Speaking further on the activities of the week themed:“Building a Culture of Fire Safety Across Nigeria: Overcoming the ‘Not My Portion’ Mentality”, over the past four days, the agency engaged Nigerians across the nation with one message: ‘fire safety begins with each of us,’ saying all must overcome the deeply rooted mentality that has limited preventive culture for decades.
“In preparation for the Fire Safety Week, the Service hosted a virtual town hall meeting co-anchored by a media personality to set the tone for this national engagement.
“Five days ago, during the opening ceremony, we presented Bankers’ Cheques to beneficiaries under the Group Life Insurance Scheme, a solemn but significant reminder of our duty to support the families of our fallen and injured heroes. In the same spirit, the “CG’s Cup” and medals, sponsored by Alhaji Kabir Lateef, were presented to the CGF, an initiative aimed at fostering continuous motivation among our personnel.
“Throughout this week, our officers carried out sensitization programmes in schools, markets, and economic hubs across the country and our gallant officers and men in the states went further by taking to the streets for road shows and other side attractions, making the week truly eventful. We conducted drills, demonstrations, and engagements designed to empower citizens with the knowledge and mindset required to prevent fire outbreaks.
“ I am pleased to say that the impact has been remarkable, Nigerians are showing greater interest, heightened awareness, and a renewed commitment to safety.”
