Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday called on Lagosians to be more safety conscious to avoid fire incidents which has become a regular occurrence in the state.
The Governor spoke at the opening of new fire stations at Ijegun-Egba and Ijede, Ikorodu.
The Governor was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin at the Ijede commissioning, while the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, Mr. Sesan Tunde Ogundeko, represented him at the Ijegun-Egba commissioning.
In his address, the Governor said the two new stations at Ijegun-Egba and Ijede, Ikorodu, were sited where they are needed most, adding they have been equipped to handle domestic fires, industrial accidents, and any other emergencies that may occur.
“But this is more than just a building, it’s a lifeline. It’s here to save lives, reduce response times, and ensure our first responders can reach those in need as swiftly as possible,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu said the stations were part of the government’s developmental agenda. He said Lagos has been ranked 19th best city in the world due to its rapid infrastructural development and called on private sectors to collaborate with the government in protecting the life of Lagosians
The governor expressed confidence in the ability of the ‘courageous firefighters, adding that ‘we are confident in your ability to protect and serve our people even more effectively.’
Governor Sanwo-Olu assured the people that his administration is committed to prioritising their safety and urged the residents of Ijegun and surrounding areas to see the station ‘as a community asset, a lifeline in times of crisis, and an assurance that we are here to serve and protect.’
The Commissioner for Special Duties, Gbenga Oyerinde in his speech noted that with the population of Lagos growing, there is need for effective emergency response infrastructure especially in cases of fire incidents.
He added that the new fire station was a demonstration of the state government’s commitment to the safety of Lagosians.
“This administration has overhauled our emergency mechanisms. This new station is equipped with firefighting equipment, advanced fire fighting engines, a brand new vehicle and highly trained personnel,” the Commissioner said.
He further said that the choice of Ijede for the station is strategic as it would help in prompt response to incidents in nearby communities.
The Commissioner said in the last one year, 2,500 fire incidents were attended to in Lagos by the Lagos State Fire Service, adding that the new station was a sign of dedication by the government to ‘deliver a more resilient Lagos State to all.’
He however urged the people to be security conscious by avoiding situations that can lead to fire incidents.
“Public safety is a shared responsibility. I urge the community to remain vigilant and proactive to avoid fire incidents.
The Director, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, noted that Lagos State faces significant challenges in safely guiding its people because of its large population and therefore the state requires robust management.
She said the delay in completing the station since its construction was approved on July 29, 2021 was due to financial constraints but expressed delight that it has come to reality.
A renowned monarch in Ijede Local Council Area, the Obateru of Egbin Kingdom, Oba Adeoriyomi Oyebo said the community had anticipated the construction of the station and thanked the governor for making it a reality.
He urged the people to support the government in maintaining the station.
