Eid-el-Fitr: Fire Service On High Alert, Advocates For Camera Installation On Tankers

Eid-el-Fitr: Fire Service On High Alert, Advocates For Camera Installation On Tankers

As Muslims worldwide prepare to celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Fitr festival, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Abdulganiyu O. Jaji, has announced that the service is on heightened alert to manage potential emergencies before, during, and after the festivities.

In a statement released on Saturday, Engr. Jaji emphasized the urgent need for the installation of onboard cameras on tankers and other heavy vehicles transporting flammable materials. This precaution is aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of the public and critical infrastructure, especially during the high-traffic period surrounding the Eid celebrations….READ MORE…

Jaji called on relevant stakeholders to implement these safety measures to reduce risks and improve overall road safety during this time. He also extended his warm congratulations to the Muslim community for successfully completing the Ramadan fast.

The fire service chief stressed that these measures are essential to preventing accidents involving fuel tankers, particularly considering the increased movement during the holiday season. He confirmed that all fire service units across the country have been placed on high alert to ensure prompt response to any emergencies during the celebrations.

Jaji also urged the public to familiarize themselves with the contact details of their local fire service units to ensure quick action in case of a fire emergency. He reminded citizens to exercise caution while cooking, as the use of gas, stoves, electricity, charcoal, and other flammable materials increases during festive meal preparations. He advised not leaving cooking unattended, keeping matches out of children’s reach, and storing gas cylinders outside kitchens, among other safety measures.

“These actions are critical to preventing fires that could disrupt the joy of Eid,” he said.

Engr. Jaji expressed concern over the substandard condition of many tankers on Nigerian roads, which continue to fail to meet modern safety standards. These vehicles contribute to the rising number of accidents, causing significant loss of life and property.

“Modern tankers are equipped with anti-rollover systems that prevent tipping, anti-spill devices to ensure no leakage in case of an accident, and internal and external cameras to monitor drivers’ behavior,” he explained.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by tanker owners in replacing old fleets, Jaji suggested an alternative: the installation of onboard computers or chip packs to monitor driving patterns, such as speed and night driving.

“We are concerned because these outdated tankers exploit weak enforcement of safety standards, turning them into mobile hazards on the nation’s highways,” he noted. “While the need to replace or retrofit tankers with modern safety features is clear, we are confident that government agencies tasked with enforcing these standards will address this issue over time, leading to safer roadways.”