Pix: Helmsman of the Federal Fire Service, Samuel Adeyemi with isiaka Mustapha, CEO/People’s Security, shortly after their meeting on Monday morning at the Abuja Headquarters of the Federal Fire Service

The newly appointed Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Samuel Adeyemi has called for a stronger and more strategic collaboration between journalists and the fire service, stating that such partnership is critical to enhancing public safety, emergency preparedness, and national resilience.

Adeyemi made the call during a courtesy visit by Isiaka Mustapha, the Editor-in-Chief of People’s Security Monitor, at the Federal Fire Service headquarters in Abuja. The meeting, held on Monday, focused on strengthening media–fire service relations in the interest of national development and public enlightenment.

Speaking during the engagement, Adeyemi emphasized that the benefits of journalist–fire service collaboration are far-reaching and could significantly impact Nigerians at all levels from urban centres to rural communities.

“The media is one of our most important allies in safeguarding lives and property,” Adeyemi said. “Journalists don’t just report fire outbreaks; they educate, warn, mobilize, and hold all stakeholders accountable. If we work closely, the Nigerian public will be safer, more informed, and better prepared for emergencies.”

Adeyemi listed several key benefits that could accrue to Nigerians if the media and fire service worked in coordinated partnership.

He noted that public education and awareness on fire safety would be significantly amplified. According to him, journalists play a crucial role in spreading life-saving information on fire prevention, safe electricity usage, the dangers of overloading circuits, how to use fire extinguishers, and the importance of having emergency evacuation plans at home, schools, and workplaces.

He also emphasized that the media is essential in real-time emergency communication, especially during large-scale incidents such as market fires, gas explosions, building collapses, or natural disasters like floods. In such cases, Adeyemi said, journalists help disseminate verified information to guide evacuations, reduce panic, and save lives.

Beyond emergency response, Adeyemi pointed out that first service activities cover a broader than many Nigerians realize. These include road traffic accident rescues, flood response, search and rescue operations, hazardous materials containment, fire investigation and disaster risk reduction. He said journalists have a role to play in highlighting these services so that the public can understand and benefit from them.

“When the public is aware of all we do beyond firefighting, they become more likely to cooperate with us, support safety initiatives, and call on us when necessary,” he explained. “That awareness often starts with the media.”

The Controller General further noted that increased media visibility would help drive recruitment efforts, particularly in underserved regions. He said stories highlighting the heroism, skill, and professionalism of fire officers can inspire young Nigerians to consider careers in the fire service, helping to bridge manpower gaps and promote community representation.

Adeyemi also spoke about the importance of the media in policy advocacy and resource mobilisation. According to him, media investigations and reports often bring attention to underfunded fire stations, lack of equipment, or gaps in enforcement of safety regulations. This, he said, can prompt government action, budgetary allocations, and donor support.

He further encouraged journalists to assist in fire prevention advocacy by challenging harmful practices such as illegal fuel storage, substandard electrical wiring, and unauthorized construction. He added that responsible journalism could play a crucial role in shaping public behaviour and reducing avoidable fire incidents.

On the issue of post incident reporting, Adeyemi appealed to the media to verify their information before publication to avoid misrepresentation, panic, or damage to public trust. He assured that the fire service is committed to transparency and would always be available to provide accurate information.

In response, Isiaka Mustapha expressed appreciation for the Controller General’s openness and vision, pledging continued support from People’s Security Monitor and other safety-focused media platforms.

“We share the same goal to protect Nigerians and ensure that our communities are safe. As journalists, we are ready to work with the fire service to drive that agenda,” Mustapha said.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to establish more structured channels of communication, including