(DDM) – The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to establish dedicated fire stations in public tertiary institutions across the country to enhance safety, protect lives, and safeguard national educational assets.
According to officials, the initiative aims to prevent fire outbreaks and minimize damage to school infrastructure, including libraries, laboratories, and administrative buildings.
The Ministry of Education stated that the move is part of a broader strategy to improve campus security and emergency preparedness in higher education institutions.
Experts say the new fire stations will ensure faster response times during emergencies, reducing the risk of casualties and property loss.
Officials added that the project will involve installing modern firefighting equipment, training personnel, and coordinating with local fire services for emergency support.
Campus administrators welcomed the initiative, highlighting previous incidents of fire outbreaks that resulted in the loss of valuable academic resources.
Students’ unions also expressed support, noting that improved fire safety infrastructure will create safer learning environments and reduce anxiety among students.
The government emphasized that protecting educational assets is critical for sustaining national development and ensuring uninterrupted academic activities.
Authorities confirmed that the project will be implemented in phases, prioritizing institutions with higher student populations and past fire incidents.
The Ministry of Education pledged to collaborate with state governments, fire service agencies, and private partners to ensure successful implementation of the fire stations.
Officials stressed the importance of continuous public awareness campaigns to educate students and staff about fire prevention and safety protocols.
The project aligns with Nigeria’s broader safety and disaster preparedness goals, ensuring that institutions are better equipped to respond to emergencies.
The government also plans to integrate fire safety drills and training sessions into campus programs to enhance readiness among students and staff.
Analysts say the initiative could serve as a model for other public and private institutions seeking to strengthen campus safety nationwide.
Authorities confirmed that funding for the project will come from federal allocations, with additional support sought from development partners and corporate organizations.
The Federal Government reassured the public that it remains committed to creating safe and secure learning environments for all Nigerian students.
Officials added that regular inspections and maintenance of fire stations will be conducted to ensure effectiveness and sustainability of the initiative.
The move is expected to reduce the frequency and impact of fire-related incidents, safeguarding human lives and valuable educational resources.
Campus safety experts encouraged institutions to complement the government’s efforts by establishing their internal emergency response teams and reporting hazards promptly.
The initiative represents a proactive step toward enhancing disaster management in Nigerian tertiary institutions and promoting a culture of safety and preparedness.
