The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Samuel Adeyemi Olumode, has restated his commitment to modernizing the agency and expanding its role beyond firefighting to include full-scale rescue and emergency management services nationwide.

Olumode made this known on Tuesday when he received a delegation from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service, led by its Director, Engr. Zaccheaus Adebayo, during a courtesy visit to the Service Headquarters in Garki, Abuja.

The FCT Fire Service delegation congratulated Olumode on his appointment and pledged loyalty and full cooperation towards advancing his leadership vision. Adebayo also called for stronger collaboration between the federal and FCT fire agencies in areas such as training, capacity building, inter-agency support, and access to modern infrastructure.

In a statement signed by DCF P.O. Abraham, National PRO of the Federal Fire Service, it was noted that effective collaboration would not only enhance firefighting operations but also create more opportunities for skill development among FCT officers.

Olumode, in his response, commended the delegation for the gesture and assured them of continued support. He emphasized that one of his administration’s priorities is to strengthen state fire services across the country with the tools and knowledge needed to meet modern challenges.

He further revealed that the Federal Fire Service Act would be reviewed before December 2025 as part of wider institutional reforms aimed at repositioning the Service as a multi-mandate emergency management body capable of handling diverse crises, from fire disasters to national emergencies.

“The Service is set for transformation. Beyond firefighting, we are working to institutionalize rescue and emergency management as part of our expanded mandate. We will continue to welcome collaboration with agencies like the FCT Fire Service to safeguard lives, property, and the nation’s critical infrastructure,” Olumode said.

He stressed that strong partnerships remain the foundation for effective emergency response in a rapidly urbanizing Nigeria.

The meeting ended with a consensus that robust collaboration between the FFS and FCT Fire Service is vital to addressing rising fire risks, strengthening safety infrastructure, and ensuring faster responses to emergencies across the capital city and beyond.