The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service has raised concerns over its aging, overused firefighting trucks and equipment.

Speaking at a news conference to mark the 23rd anniversary of the Service, the Controller, Engr. Adebayo Amiola Zacchaeus, said the Service’s major operational hurdles are shortage of manpower and the overused of vehicles, noting that many of the Service’s operational vehicles have been in use far beyond their lifespan.

“One of our major concerns is the overuse and aging of our firefighting trucks. Many of these trucks have served well beyond their recommended years, and the cost of keeping them functional through constant maintenance continues to rise,” he stated.

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Zacchaeus explained that the rising cost of diesel and frequent breakdowns of old trucks have hindered the Service’s ability to respond swiftly to emergencies.

He lamented the shortage of manpower within the Service, stating that the expansion of the FCT has not been extended to the fire stations and the personnel.

“Every district should ideally have a functional fire station for quick response to emergencies. Unfortunately, several areas including Wuse, Guzape, Mpape, Jikwoyi, Orozo, Karshi, Karsana, Idu, Karimo, and Lugbe still lack an adequate presence of fire stations.”

He appealed to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to give attention to the construction of new fire stations in some of these districts, emphasizing that the safety of lives and property depends on timely response.

He added that the Kaura Fire Station, which is nearing completion, as well as the ones in Utako, Mbora, and Gaduwa, will significantly strengthen fire coverage when operational.

He commended the FCT Minister,  Nyesom Wike, for his ongoing infrastructure drive in the capital city and appealed for greater government funding to address the growing cost of diesel, maintenance of aging vehicles, and procurement of modern firefighting equipment.

“The cost of running the operations of the FCT Fire Service is becoming increasingly high. We, therefore, plead for continued support from the administration to ensure that our service remains fully functional, responsive, and well-equipped,” he said.

The controller urged residents to be cautious with open fires, bush burning, and electrical usage, as the dry season approaches—a period which he described as characterized by frequent and severe fire outbreaks.