The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service has appealed to the federal government for increased funding and urgent modernization of its operations, warning that many of its firefighting vehicles and equipment have exceeded their operational lifespan.
Director of the FCT Fire Service, Adebayo Amiola, made the appeal while outlining the operational challenges confronting the agency, stressing that safeguarding the nation’s capital requires sustained investment in modern firefighting infrastructure and personnel.
Amiola noted that Abuja, as the seat of government, hosts diplomatic missions, international organisations, critical national assets and millions of residents and visitors, making it imperative for the FCT Fire Service to maintain the highest standards of emergency response.
He identified four priority areas requiring immediate government intervention to improve the agency’s capacity.
According to him, the first is the replacement of obsolete firefighting appliances and operational equipment, many of which have outlived their service life and now require urgent renewal.
He also called for increased budgetary allocation to strengthen emergency preparedness, expand fire prevention programmes and ensure regular maintenance of existing equipment.
The fire chief further stressed the need for continuous local and international specialised training to equip firefighters with modern skills in rescue operations, hazardous materials management and advanced emergency response techniques.
Amiola also advocated the recruitment of additional personnel to meet the demands of the rapidly growing Federal Capital Territory and improve emergency response coverage across the city and satellite communities.
He added that the service requires modern technologies, including aerial ladder platforms, water tenders, breathing apparatus and emergency assessment drones, noting that such equipment has significantly enhanced firefighting operations in other jurisdictions, including Lagos State.
“A well-equipped fire service is not a mere expenditure; it is an investment in public safety, economic stability, investor confidence, and national resilience,” Amiola said.
He urged the Federal Government and other stakeholders to support the modernization of the FCT Fire Service, describing it as a shared responsibility essential to protecting lives, property and the nation’s capital.
