By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has ordered a nationwide operational alert, directing its formations to maintain full readiness and uninterrupted emergency response as Nigerians celebrate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

The directive was issued by the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, CGF Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, who ordered fire stations and operational units across the country to keep response crews, fire appliances and essential emergency equipment ready for immediate deployment throughout the celebration period.Issued through the Office of Federal Operations under the leadership of the Deputy Controller-General, DCG Kehinde Ajasa, the directive requires officers and men on operational duty to remain at their designated posts and maintain heightened vigilance.

The CGF specifically directed commanders to focus attention on areas expected to experience increased human movement and activity during the celebrations, including public gathering points, major transport routes, markets, commercial centres and other identified fire-risk locations.

He further charged personnel to maintain professionalism and coordinate effectively with relevant emergency and security agencies in responding to incidents and managing emergencies.The Service also urged members of the public to celebrate responsibly, exercise caution while travelling and observe basic fire-safety measures, particularly around cooking, electrical installations and other potential sources of ignition.

The Federal Fire Service congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and said its personnel would remain operational throughout the period in line with the Service’s statutory responsibility for fire prevention, rescue and emergency response.