The Ekiti State Association of Private Fire Service Providers has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Ekiti State Fire Service to reduce the incidence of fire outbreaks across the state.
The association gave the assurance during a familiarization visit to the newly appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities overseeing Fire Services, Engr. Toyin Ojelabi-Pedro, in Ado-Ekiti.
Speaking during the visit, Ojelabi-Pedro said the Ekiti State Government prioritised fire prevention over emergency response, stressing that proactive measures were key to achieving zero fire outbreaks in the state.
She charged the Ekiti State Fire Service to operate strictly within the provisions of the Ekiti State Fire Service Law, noting that its core mandates include prompt response to fire emergencies, prevention of fire outbreaks, issuance of licences and regulation of fire safety equipment.
The permanent secretary explained that private fire service providers were statutorily expected to focus on the supply, installation and maintenance of fire extinguishers and other fire safety devices in private facilities such as filling stations, private schools, supermarkets and similar premises.
Ojelabi-Pedro added that individuals or the organisations outside the Ekiti State Association of Private Fire Service Providers must register with the ministry before operating within the state , warning that appropriate sanctions would be applied against individual or organization operating outside the roles clearly defined by law.
Earlier, the Chairman of the association, Mr. Joel Ogunmodede, alleged increasing encroachment on the statutory responsibilities of private fire service providers, particularly in the areas of fire extinguisher sales and installation.
Ogunmodede, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Sajoe Fire Safety Limited, claimed that unknown officials had taken over some private premises assigned to registered members, thereby undermining their operations.
He called for increased public awareness on fire prevention and clearer delineation of roles between the State Fire Service and private operators.
In his remarks, the Director of Fire Service, Mr. Olusola Famosaya, thanked the permanent secretary for what he described as a progressive engagement and pledged the continued support of the State Fire Service toward effective collaboration.
Also speaking, a retired Director of Fire Service and member of the association, Mr. Olugbenga Omoniyi, commended the Ekiti State Government for providing an enabling environment for the private fire service providers.
Omoniyi expressed optimism that sustained collaboration and proper role clarification would strengthen fire safety management in the state for the benefit of residents and businesses.