By Nkechi Eze
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to comprehensive fire safety reform following an official inspection of the National Fire Academy in Sheda, Abuja.
The visit, which forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing oversight and reform initiatives, underscores efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance operational efficiency and reposition the Federal Fire Service to meet emerging global safety demands.
In a statement signed by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Mary Ali, the Ministry disclosed that the Minister toured major facilities within the Academy, which is currently about 65 per cent completed. The project comprises training grounds, residential quarters, classrooms, a library and operational equipment units designed to provide comprehensive professional training for fire personnel.
Addressing officials during the inspection, Tunji-Ojo described the National Fire Academy as the backbone of professional training, capacity development and the modernization of fire service operations in Nigeria. He stressed that a well-equipped and fully operational academy is critical to building a responsive and globally competitive fire service.
The Minister reiterated the Ministry’s resolve to equip fire officers with contemporary skills, modern technology and the infrastructure required to effectively respond to fire emergencies and disaster incidents nationwide. According to him, fire safety management extends beyond emergency response, serving as both a security priority and an economic imperative.
He noted that preventable fire outbreaks have far-reaching consequences on national productivity, private investment and public confidence, adding that strengthening prevention and response mechanisms will significantly contribute to economic stability and national development.
Tunji-Ojo further emphasized that improving training standards and operational readiness remains central to the Ministry’s broader reform agenda. He called for continuous curriculum review, enhanced discipline and a deepened culture of professionalism to ensure alignment with global best practices in fire and rescue services.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, commended the leadership of the Federal Fire Service and the Academy’s staff for their dedication and commitment. She assured that the Ministry would continue to provide the necessary administrative and policy support to strengthen institutional performance and accountability.
Also speaking, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s proactive leadership. He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to delivering efficient, timely and professional fire and rescue services across the country.
The inspection signals the Ministry of Interior’s sustained resolve to build resilient institutions, fortify emergency response systems and safeguard lives, property and critical national assets through structured reforms and strategic investment in capacity development.
