The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, has ordered a nationwide suspension of leave and holidays for all officers and personnel of the Service throughout the harmattan and yuletide season.
Adeyemi announced the directive during a virtual meeting with Zonal Controllers, where he also launched the Federal Fire Service’s Harmattan Fire Safety Campaign aimed at reducing fire outbreaks during the dry season.
He said the no-leave policy was necessary to ensure full operational readiness as the harmattan period is often marked by dry weather, increased fire risks and heightened festive activities.
The Controller-General warned members of the public against the use of fireworks, bush burning, and unsafe handling or transportation of flammable materials, noting that such practices significantly increase fire incidents during the season.
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He directed all zonal commands to immediately submit reports on the operational status of firefighting equipment within their jurisdictions and announced plans to establish a Harmattan Monitoring Task Force to coordinate response efforts and track fire incidents nationwide.
Adeyemi also instructed state and zonal commands to carry out fire safety inspections at worship centres and other public facilities expected to host large gatherings during the festive period, while intensifying public awareness campaigns.
He further emphasised the need for inter-agency collaboration, directing fire service commands to work closely with other security and emergency agencies to improve prevention, early warning and rapid response.
The Federal Fire Service said it remains fully mobilised to protect lives and property across the country during the high-risk harmattan season.
