Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Controller of the Federal Fire Service, FCT Command, CF Muhammed S. Anas has emphasized the need for strategic collaboration with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to enhance fire safety and emergency response across railway facilities within the Federal Capital Territory. This was contained in a statement signed by SF Anyam Barnabas, Public Relations Officer, Federal Fire Service, FCT Command.
Speaking during an official visit to the Abuja–Kaduna train service of the Nigerian Railway Corporation in Abuja on Tuesday, the Controller stated that the purpose of the engagement was to seek collaboration that will enable the deployment of Federal Fire Service personnel to stations and trains in transit along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor in order to provide fire safety cover and other emergency response services, which, according to the Controller, is part of the Service’s mandate of protecting critical government infrastructure.
Noting that the increasing patronage of railway services along the Abuja–Kaduna route necessitates proactive safety measures, he stated that the presence of trained firefighting personnel at train stations will improve emergency response time and safeguard passengers, staff, and infrastructure.
CF Anas reiterated that the Federal Fire Service, FCT Command, has the capacity in terms of skilled manpower and modern firefighting equipment to effectively manage emergencies within railway environments. He added that the proposed collaboration would also include routine safety inspections, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring of compliance with fire safety standards.
The Controller further highlighted the importance of regular training for railway personnel, fire drills, and strict adherence to safety protocols, noting that prevention remains the most effective approach to mitigating fire risks in public transport systems.
He stressed that many fire incidents are preventable and often result from negligence and poor safety practices, urging the Corporation to prioritize proper maintenance of facilities, safe handling of equipment, and the installation of functional firefighting systems across all stations.
The Manager of the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service, Mohammed Ibrahim Modibo, while responding, expressed excitement about the visit, commending the Federal Fire Service for the laudable initiative and noting that the visit came at a critical time. He assured the Controller that the Corporation would not hesitate to ensure the actualization of the proposal.
Both agencies expressed willingness to work together towards strengthening safety measures and ensuring the protection of lives and property across railway operations along the Abuja–Kaduna train service.
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