The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele says there is a need for Firefighters in the State to evolve and adapt to the new trends obtained globally in firefighting.   

 Engr. Salako-Oyedele who stated this in Abeokuta, while playing host to men of the Ogun State Fire and Safety Services in commemoration of the 2022 International Fire Fighters’ Day, saying advocacy and awareness through the use of the social media are tips that could be adopted by Firefighters in enlightening the public on fire igniting agents and the hazards of fire outbreak.

 “The proximity between Ogun and Lagos, as well as the ongoing urbanisation in the State, has brought about an increase in our population, and with that, comes the added risk of fire incidence, you have to be on top of your game to complement government’s effort at ensuring the safety of lives and property”, She said.

 She appreciated officers of the fire service for their good work, advising them to take precautionary measures when handling and controlling fire outbreaks, and stressed the need for training and retraining of Officers.

She prayed for the repose of the souls of departed Firefighters who died in the cause of discharging their duties for whom the day was specially set aside to recognise.

Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr. Rotimi Akinlesi, said firefighters in the State should be trained locally and internationally, in order to expose them to the new techniques of firefighting.

Earlier in his remarks, the Director, Ogun State Fire, and Safety Services, Engr. Fatai Adefala said the purpose of their visit is to commemorate the 2022 World Firefighting Day slated for May 4, adding that it is a day, set aside to appreciate the work and sacrifice of firefighters, enlighten the populace on the hazard embedded in firefighting, and to pay respect to those who have lost their lives in the course of discharging their duties.

He commended the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration for repositioning the moribund Fire Service Stations in the State, as well as building more fire stations and converting two old tankers into functional firefighting tanks and water tanker.