Deployment of modern fire-fighting truck, others excite Buni in Yobe

Yobe state governor Mai Mala-Buni, has said that the deployment of a modern firefighting truck by the Federal Fire Service (FFS) to the state will boost emergency response services.

The excited governor Buni made the statement during the commissioning of one contemporary fire-fighting truck, Thursday in Yobe state.

The Governor represented by the state’s deputy, Idi Gubana said that the fire-fighting truck was effective in complementing the  state government’s efforts.

According to him, the new firefighting vehicle will no doubt complement our efforts in curbing the damages of fire incidents.

He said there plans were ongoing to drill boreholes at fire service stations across the state.

He added that there are plans also for “Procurement of twenty seven trucks, 1 ambulance and firefighting equipment. Renovation of the state fire service department office,” he said. 

He stated that with the establishment of a new market in the state, firefighting vehicles and equipment were essential facilities for safer economic activities.

Buni however, requested for collaboration between the FFS and the states to foster training and retraining of fire men.

“Such partnership could further enable our fire fighting workers with modern ideas in the discharge of their duties,” he said.

Earlier in his remarks, FFS Controller General, Ibrahim Liman , said the deployment was of necessity following the state’s threat from terrorists and insurgents.

“Fire havoc like the above factors has the potential of threatening the physical well-being of the population thereby destabilizing economic growth.

“ The deployment of this truck was influenced by the Senate President, Sen Ahmed Lawan to improve firefighting and rescue in the state.

“Firefighting is the responsibility of all, hence the need for a robust collaboration between the Federal and state governments,” he said.

Liman requested for “ Sponsorship of state fire service personnel in local and foreign trainings in view of emerging firefighting trends. Inclusion of the FFS in the State Security Council and strengthening of the state fire service through recruitment of capable hands.

“Welfare enhancement package for fire personnel to the paramilitary salary structure.” 

The CG urged the state government to invest in sponsorship of personnel on trainings and upgrade of salary structure.

Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashimi, said that the deployment was the beginning  of a milestone in the state.

“We consider this as a development that will add to the effective running of fire service in the state.

“It is one of my responsibilities to give enlightenment to my people and get them informed of this new equipment.

“We will make them understand that the equipment is for citizens and we need them to appreciate it, and treat it with care.

“We commend the FG and the role being played by the fire service need not be over emphasised that the service has improved tremendously, hence the need for a good relationship with the public,” he said.