Pix: Controller-General Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, the new Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS)

Hassan Ahmed writes in from Gombe State

On August 14, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made what can only be described as a profoundly thoughtful and merit-driven decision by appointing Deputy Controller-General Olumode Samuel Adeyemi as the new Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), following the retirement of Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji Olola. In a country where leadership appointments are often clouded by accusations of politics, favoritism, or ethnic balancing, this choice stands out as one based purely on competence, character, and proven track records.

Adeyemi’s rise is not a matter of chance; it is the result of over three decades of dedication to fire safety and emergency management. From his early days as a frontline firefighter with the FCT Fire Service, through his steady climb in the Federal Fire Service, Adeyemi has been tested in nearly every area of responsibility. His tenure as Deputy Controller-General in charge of Operations and Strategy was particularly defining: he coordinated nationwide responses to emergencies, introduced frameworks for crisis management, and led reforms that improved operational readiness across the Service. This hands-on experience makes him uniquely equipped to lead the Service at such a critical time.

More importantly, Adeyemi has demonstrated that he is not just a field officer but also an astute administrator. His leadership of the Human Resources Directorate at FFS headquarters left an indelible mark—streamlining recruitment, prioritizing training, and introducing one of the most comprehensive capacity-building programs in the Service’s history. By insisting on continuous retraining, he ensured that fire officers are better prepared with modern techniques, from advanced firefighting methods to disaster risk reduction strategies. Such foresight has improved morale within the Service and has laid the groundwork for a more professional and responsive workforce.

His vision extends beyond operations and personnel. Adeyemi has been a reform advocate, driving legislation on fire safety, raising public awareness, and building community partnerships that directly reduce fire hazards. He understands that preventing disasters is as important as responding to them, and his campaigns have helped shift public attitudes towards safety practices. His partnerships with international stakeholders have further exposed Nigeria’s fire service to global best practices, enhancing both efficiency and credibility.

Equally noteworthy is Adeyemi’s impressive academic and professional portfolio. He has undertaken extensive local and international training in emergency management, while also building administrative and financial expertise. As a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, a Fellow of the Institute of Public Administration, and a member of professional bodies such as the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Treasury Management, Adeyemi brings a rare combination of technical knowledge, managerial acumen, and financial discipline. Few officers embody such a holistic skill set.

The expectations around his appointment are naturally high, but they are also realistic given his track record. Nigerians can anticipate improved response times to emergencies, expansion of infrastructure, better welfare for firefighters, and a more coordinated relationship between federal and state fire services. Under his stewardship, the Service is poised to become more proactive, technologically driven, and trusted by the public.

President Tinubu deserves commendation for this appointment. By choosing Adeyemi, he has reinforced the principle that leadership in critical national institutions must be based on merit, not politics. This decision reflects the President’s broader vision of strengthening institutions to safeguard the lives and property of citizens. At a time when Nigeria faces increasing threats from fire outbreaks, industrial accidents, and natural disasters, such foresight is both timely and necessary.

Olumode Samuel Adeyemi’s emergence is therefore not just another routine appointment; it is a turning point for the Federal Fire Service. His career speaks to loyalty, expertise, reform, and results. His leadership promises to usher in a new era of professionalism, innovation, and accountability in fire and emergency management. In recognizing and rewarding such a figure, President Tinubu has made a choice that Nigeria can truly be proud of.