Keji Mustapha
The Federal Fire Service (FFS), Gombe State Command, has once again demonstrated its operational readiness and professionalism with the successful containment of a major fire outbreak at the Gombe Timber Market, resulting in the preservation of property valued at over ₦1 billion.
The fire incident was reported at approximately 8:12 a.m. on Monday, 15 December 2025. Upon receiving the distress call, firefighters from the ATM Fire Operations Base of the Federal Fire Service, Gombe State Command, led by ASF I Ali Kidams Abner, were promptly deployed to the scene.
On arrival, the team encountered a raging inferno that posed a serious threat to large sections of the timber market. Through coordinated firefighting strategies, disciplined deployment of personnel and equipment, and sustained operational efforts, the fire was successfully brought under control, preventing further spread.
As a result of the swift intervention, property estimated at over ₦1 billion was salvaged, while preliminary assessments place the value of losses at approximately ₦500 million.
To strengthen the response, a Rapid Response Intervention Team led by DSF Ahmed Ibrahim, Operations Commander, was deployed to support the initial firefighting effort. The combined operations of both teams ensured the complete containment and final extinguishment of the fire after about nine hours of continuous operations.
The incident recorded the presence and support of key emergency and security stakeholders, including the Gombe State University Fire Service, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Red Cross Society, Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), and the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Executive Governor of Gombe State.
No casualties or injuries were recorded during the incident.
The Federal Fire Service, Gombe State Command, under the leadership of Deputy Controller of Fire (DCF) S. M. Suleiman, has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property. The Command also urges traders, market authorities, and members of the public to strictly adhere to fire safety measures, particularly in densely populated commercial areas.
