In a bid to ease incidences of fire in the state, Anambra Government has launched two brand new fire fighting trucks at the State Fire Service Headquarters, Awka.
Gov. Willie Obiano was represented at the ceremony by his Deputy Dr Nkem Okeke.The Governor said this was the first time that the Federal Fire Service would be providing fire trucks to the state.From what I can assess, these trucks will definitely last long, I believe that these two fire trucks will make a difference in our efforts to fight fire in the state.
One truck will be positioned in Onitsha because it has been an area where we have reoccurring fire incidences and the other truck will be recalled to the state capital.’’Managing Director, Anambra State Fire Service, Retired Air Vice Marshal Ben Chiobi said the presence of Federal Fire would add great impetus to the state in its efforts at managing fire disasters.
According to him, interventions from the State Government have improved performance of the station and fire fighters in combating fire in the state.
Not less than 12 fire fighting trucks have been refurbished by the State Government and two new ones now added to the fleet.There has been in recent times the renovation of some of our key fire stations by the State Government.This has come at a better time, especially now that Anambra State Fire Service is on a trajectory.
The state is not new to managing emergencies being that we have had our own fair share of fire-related disasters.’’Controller-General, Federal Fire Service, Dr Liman Ibrahim was represented by Assistant Controller-General, Mr Chike Agu.Dr Ibrahim said the deployment of the trucks to the state was a resolution of administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure safety of life and property of citizens.He assured that the gesture would enhance robust partnership with Anambra State Government to minimise threats of fire in the state.For a densely populated state with not less than 60 per cent of its population dwelling in urban cities, the Federal and State Government cannot afford to treat issues of safety and security without the seriousness it deserves.The presence of the Federal Fire Service in the state is to compliment the fire-fighting efforts of the State Fire Service.
