The Federal Fire Service, Zone C Bauchi Command, responded swiftly to a distress call at about 10:10 a.m. on April 11, 2026, concerning a diesel tanker fire at IHS Tower, YMCA, adjacent to Ramadan Printing Press Limited, along Maiduguri Bypass, Bauchi, Bauchi State.
The incident involved a diesel tanker (RSH-591XE) carrying 15,000 litres of diesel, which caught fire while refilling an MTN storage tanker. Preliminary findings indicate that the fire was triggered by a metal spark during the operation.
In a courageous effort, the driver’s assistant sustained first-degree burns while successfully moving the burning tanker away from the IHS Tower facilities to an open area. This quick action enabled firefighters to contain the blaze after several hours of intensive operations, preventing damage to critical infrastructure at the site.
The fire was eventually extinguished using F500 foam compound and water jets deployed from FFS 116, with additional support from the Bauchi State Fire Service.
The Acting State Controller, DCF Babangida Mallam Abba, who was present at the scene, commended the prompt response and professionalism of the firefighters. He noted that their timely intervention prevented the fire from escalating and affecting key installations. He further stressed the need for strict adherence to safety protocols during fuel handling and called on stakeholders to prioritize fire prevention measures.
Other agencies present at the scene included the Bauchi State Fire Service, ATBU Fire Service, Nigerian Army Armoured Corps Bauchi, Zaman TV Bauchi, Labari Daga Bauchi Radio, and Albarka Radio.
No lives were lost in the incident. Property valued at approximately ₦300,000,000 was saved, while losses were estimated at ₦70,000,000.
The situation was brought under control, and firefighting personnel and equipment returned to the station at about 1:00 p.m.