Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on Thursday, handed over five newly procured Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) fire fighting trucks to the state Fire Service for distribution to the five newly constructed Fire Service Stations across the three senatorial zones of the South-East state.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, Ugwuanyi said that the gesture was to enhance the fire service efficiency and effective response to emergencies
He reiterated the commitment of his administration to the safety and security of lives and property in the state, adding that the state government will continue to intervene and collaborate with the fire fighting body, “especially during this dry season”.
He said that such precautionary measures his administration adopted before the dry season aborted the fire incident at Ogbete Main Market, Enugu.
The governor commended the State Chief Fire Officer, Okwudiri Ohaa, and his men for their doggedness, professionalism and diligent service to the state.
The State Chief Fire Officer, earlier in his address, expressed delight that he is on the saddle “at this time Enugu State Fire Service has been transformed from a moribund department to an effective, efficient, vibrant and responsive department through the unwavering support of the present administration led by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi”.
According to him, “Enugu State Fire Service has seen massive improvement through this administration of which some of the areas include building and furnishing of five new ultra modern fire stations across the three senatorial zones of the state, increased hazard allowance for fire service personnel from N200 to N5000, which is among the highest in the country, provision of fire fighter suits and service uniforms for all the staff regularly, provision of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and other fire fighting aids for protection and safety of the state fire fighters.
He included constant supply and availability of chemicals used for fighting all types of fires, promoting their drive in creating public awareness on fire safety and prevention, recruitment of 11 drivers in 2016 and 51able bodied men into the job in 2019, capacity building through personnel training including international trainings ,procurement of fire appliances and equipment vehicles, including the five new fire fighting trucks, as some of the state government ‘s support to them.
The event, also witnessed the passing-out parade of 62 men and officers of the state Fire Service recruited and trained by the state government.
