Federal Fire Service in Lagos has taken delivery of 23 fire-fighting trucks to further equip its men for the protection of lives and property of Nigerians.

Inaugurating the equipment, the Minister for Interior, Lieutenant General Abdul-Rahman Danbazzau, said the Federal Government had last December procured 10 fire-fighting trucks for the FFS in Abuja.

“Two years ago when I was here, there was no functional equipment. This place was an eyesore and being a central place in the heart of Lagos.

“Though, Lagos State Government made an attempt to do something too, but I said we also have to come in because we serve the people,’’ the minister said.

Dambazzau said federal government would not only focus on purchasing equipment but would also pay attention to the welfare of personnel.

He urged the Service to focus on training to improve the response time of fire fighters and maintain the equipment which were purchased with public funds.

“Two weeks ago, the federal government approved the procurement of a simulation equipment which will give personnel training opportunity.

“A lot still needs to be done in the Federal Fire Service as it is an important agency of the government because it has to do with protection of lives and property, he said.

He urged the fire fighters to be professional in their duties despite the fact that the fire service was a risky business.

Earlier, Controller General, Joseph Anebi, said the delivery of the trucks symbolized additional efforts aimed at complementing efforts of state fire services.

“We have been able to create a good relationship with the various state fire services to ensure partnership for efficient service delivery to Nigerians.

“In the area of training and capacity building, the service had upgraded the National Fire Academy to a degree awarding institution by affiliating it with Nigeria Defence Academy,” he said

He said a training school had also been established in Minna, Niger State, for the training of junior fire officers.

Commanding Officer in Lagos State, Olisa Machie thanked the federal government for the support and gave assurance that the equipment would be maintained and utilised effectively.