Property Worth N1.9 trillion Save from Inferno

…N67.1 billion Property Lost, Over 100 Persons Died in Fire Outbreaks

By: Michael Mike

Property worth N1.9 trillion were saved from being destroyed by fire outbreak in 2024, with another estimated at N67.1 billion lost in the same period even as over 100 lives were equally lost in various infernos across the country, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engineer Abdulganiyu Jaji disclosed on Friday.

Addressing the media on the achievements of the the service in the last one year, Jaji said: “In the year 2024, the Federal Fire Service successful saved property worth N1.9 trillion and recorded an estimated property loss of N67.1 billion. In the same year, the Federal Fire Service responded to fire and other emergencies during which 30, 890 lives were saved while about 100 lives were lost .

He warned Nigerians on the dangers of not being careful enough around fire, stating that: “Currently, we are in the harmattan season when humidity is low and the risk of static spark or gas explosion can spread rapidly. Fire is a delicate and dynamic force that requires us to be more cautious and vigilant.”

He added that: “At this point, I implore all operators of fuel stations, petrol tankers, gas refilling station, gas cylinders consumers and the general public to follow safety protocols and regulations.

“As we begin year 2025, our focus, remains steadfast on ensuring public safety, and improving our commitment to saving lives, property and the environment.

“The purpose of today’s briefing is to address the fire outbreaks, that occurred across the country recently, especially those, in the year 2024 such as; petrol tanker explosions, markets, religious centers, fuel stations, private, public property and other major emergencies, in order to forestall further occurrence of such fire incidents.”

He disclosed that: “This year, we will continue to advance our goals through robust strategies, operational efficiency and proactive moves, we will also focus on raising awareness, improving response time using cutting edge technologies such as the National Fire Detection and Alarm System (NAFDAS), Fire Alarm App known as N-Alert.”

He said: “His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Commander-in- Chief of the Armed Forces who remains committed to the safety of lives and property of the Nation in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda, made significant strides such as graciously approving the procurement of state-of-the-art firefighting appliances, Remodeling of the National Fire Academy Sheda.”

Jaji went on to apologize and condole with Nigerians over the fire incidences recorded so far since 2024 stating that effort are being made to build more secure stations to boost emergency response time to boost efficiency and cut down on losses during fire outbreaks

Property Worth N1.9 trillion Save from Inferno

Zulum pledges support for Leather and Hides Industry to boost Borno economy

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the leather and hides industry in the state to drive economic growth.

Zulum made the commitment on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Leather Science and Technology (NILEST), Dr. Auwal Mustapha Imam, at the Government House, Maiduguri.

Governor Zulum emphasized the sector’s critical role in not only advancing Borno State’s economy but also contributing to the nation’s economic development.

He highlighted the state’s efforts to revive the Neitel Shoes Company which had been dormant for over two decades, noting that with continued political will, significant transformation in the leather industry is achievable.

He hailed the upgrade of the Maiduguri Extension Centre of NILEST to a Regional Centre, a move that will enhance coordination of leather-related activities across six states in the region.

He expressed strong support for the sector stating, “We will give you the desired support to promote the sector. With the degree of seriousness, we can achieve success. However, where there is corruption, progress will be difficult. Let me assure you that the government of Borno State will work with you and your team for the growth and development of the leather industry.”

Governor Zulum further directed the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Tarpaya Asarya, to collaborate with NILEST to create job opportunities for unemployed youths, promote capacity building, and facilitate other benefits linked to the sector’s growth.

The governor also ordered the immediate dispatch of 60 Borno State indigenes to NILEST in Zaria for training in leather technology, footwear design, and innovation.

“As the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Leather Policy, we aim to thoroughly study the policy document to explore more opportunities for growth and partnerships,” Governor Zulum added.

In response to recent flood damage, the governor also instructed the reconstruction of the Centre’s damaged perimeter fence and the allocation of two housing units for staff members of the institute.

Director General and CEO of NILEST, Dr. Auwal Mustapha Imam, announced that the Maiduguri Extension Centre has officially been upgraded to the Northeast Regional Centre, with Borno State indigene, Dr. Usman Ali Busuguma, appointed as the new Northeast Regional Manager.

He expressed his appreciation to the governor for his keen interest in ensuring productivity in leather and leather products.

Zulum pledges support for Leather and Hides Industry to boost Borno economy

BOGIS: Zulum commends ES Bababe for transforming land administration

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the Executive Secretary, Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS), Engineer Adam Bukar Bababe for his effort in redefining land administration in Borno State.

Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS), established in 2019, is responsible for the administration and management of land matters in the state including issues relating to land title, registration and searches.

Zulum made the commendation on Thursday after commissioning projects executed by Borno Geographic Information Service which includes a 180-seater capacity auditorium and a modern studio.

“I believe the Executive Secretary is doing well and I commend him for that. I understand the project we have commissioned is the fruit of a well-articulated design of the management of the agency which was executed with meagre funds available in the agency as the cost of collection or administration charges.”

“All the projects you can see here including those that were not part of the ones we commissioned are done with the little amount released to the agency as their collection fee which is only 5%. I have not at any time released money to execute any project for the agency. Once again, for his prudence, I want to commend the Executive Secretary.”

The governor was accompanied by the secretary to the Borno State Government, Alhaji Bukar Tijani, the head of service, Barrister Mallam Fannami, commissioners and other top officials.

BOGIS: Zulum commends ES Bababe for transforming land administration