FG Moves to Transform Federal Fire Service, 5,000 New Recruits Undergo Screening
By Naijagossiper Official ยท
The Federal Government has announced plans to transform the Federal Fire Service into a modern fire and rescue agency, with more than 5,000 new recruits currently undergoing final screening and documentation.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Monday, November 2, 2026, during the 2026 National Fire Safety Week celebration in Abuja.
Speaking under the theme, "Building a Fire-Resilient Nigeria: One Community at a Time," the minister said the proposed transformation would require a new legal framework capable of supporting modern firefighting and rescue operations.
Tunji-Ojo identified the existing Federal Fire Service Act, which is more than 60 years old, as a major obstacle to the agency's development, stressing the need for legislative reforms to address emerging fire safety challenges.
He called for stronger fire safety inspections, strict enforcement of safety regulations and the integration of basic rescue techniques and life-saving skills into school curricula.
According to the minister, improving fire safety requires a collective effort involving government institutions, communities, schools and private organisations.
National Fire Academy Nears Completion
The minister also disclosed that construction of the National Fire Academy in Sheda, Federal Capital Territory, has reached 85 per cent completion and is expected to be ready before the end of the year.
He added that the accompanying fire hydrant facility is scheduled for completion in December.
The projects are expected to strengthen professional training, improve emergency response capabilities and provide firefighters with modern facilities for effective operations.
FG Clears Over 50,000 Outstanding Promotions
Tunji-Ojo further revealed that the Federal Government had cleared more than 50,000 outstanding promotions across paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior.
He said the 2026 promotion exercise had also been concluded, describing the development as part of the government's efforts to improve personnel welfare and career progression.
The minister also announced that the Federal Fire Service had expanded its operational commands from six to 18, while officers' risk allowances had received government approval.
He assured personnel that the government recognised the sacrifices made by firefighters and other paramilitary officers in protecting lives and property.
FG Promises Improved Firefighting Capacity
The minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to equipping the Federal Fire Service with the personnel, facilities and legal backing required to respond effectively to emergencies.
He emphasised that the proposed reforms would move the agency beyond conventional firefighting duties towards a broader fire and rescue service capable of handling different emergency situations.
The development comes amid growing calls for improved emergency response systems, stronger enforcement of building safety standards and greater public awareness of fire prevention across Nigeria.