By AMINU DALHATU; Editing by BASIRAT MEMUDU
The Federal Fire Service in Zamfara State has appealed to Governor Dauda Lawal for increased operational support to enhance the agency’s emergency response capacity across the State.
The Coordinator of the Service in Zamfara State, Sagir Garba made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House in Gusau, where he commended the administration’s developmental strides and commitment to good governance in Zamfara State.
Highlighting the mandate of the Federal Fire Service, the Coordinator explained that the agency is responsible for fire prevention, firefighting, rescue operations, disaster risk reduction, and the protection of lives and property.
Garba added that, despite limited resources, the Zamfara Command had remained committed to its duties through emergency response services, public enlightenment campaigns, safety inspections, and collaboration with other security agencies.
According to him, over 95 percent of the personnel in the command are indigenes of Zamfara State, a development he said reflects strong local commitment and capacity to tackle fire outbreaks and related emergencies effectively.
The Coordinator, however identified key operational challenges affecting the command’s efficiency, including the lack of utility vehicles and the need for an additional fire truck to improve rapid response during emergencies.
He further noted that although the State government had previously donated utility vehicles to security agencies, the Federal Fire Service was not included and therefore appealed for the governor’s intervention to address the gap.
Saqir Garba also requested inclusion of the agency in future government support initiatives, including end-of-year interventions for security agencies, as well as the provision of consistent monthly operational support to strengthen service delivery.
He acknowledged the support received from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, particularly the monthly supply of diesel, which he said has helped sustain some operational activities.
Additionally, he appealed for assistance in providing basic welfare and office equipment, including mattresses for operational staff and computers and printers for administrative use, noting that improved working conditions would enhance productivity and efficiency.
Responding, Governor Dauda Lawal assured the delegation of his administration’s commitment to strengthening fire service operations across the state, pledging to address key challenges affecting the agency’s efficiency.
Welcoming the delegation, Governor Lawal said his administration would carefully examine the issues raised, particularly those relating to manpower shortages, inadequate utility vehicles, and funding concerns.
Governor Lawal acknowledged that while the Federal Fire Service operates under the federal government, there was a need to establish stronger synergy between federal and state authorities to improve personnel strength and service delivery.
On the issue of operational vehicles, the governor noted that the fire service had been inadvertently excluded from previous distributions of vehicles to security agencies, assuring that the matter would be addressed.
“We will look into that, Insha’Allah,” he said.
Governor Lawal also directed a review of financial allocations to the fire service, especially funds disbursed through local governments and the state, to ensure transparency and proper utilization.
“I know local governments provide substantial support to the fire service. We will verify the records to ensure clarity and address any discrepancies,” he stated.
In response to the agency’s request, the governor approved an increase in diesel supply to 200 litres to enhance operational readiness.
He further disclosed that the state government had procured eight new fire trucks, which would soon be distributed to selected local government areas, including Gummi and others, to improve emergency response.
The Governor added that additional support, including mattresses, blankets, and office equipment such as computers, would be provided to improve the welfare and administrative efficiency of fire service personnel.
Despite the assurances, Governor Lawal expressed disappointment over reports of poor performance within the agency, citing an incident where a fire service facility was destroyed by fire without adequate response.
“I was shocked and disappointed. There is no excuse for lack of preparedness. You must always be on alert. Fire service is a 24-hour responsibility,” he said.
He emphasized the need for accountability, urging officials to ensure that operational resources such as diesel and water are always available for emergency situations.
