Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has strengthened emergency response in Lagos State with the induction of 150 newly recruited firefighters and the commencement of operations at the newly completed Oworonshoki Fire Station.
Eko Hot News reports that the dual event reflects the Lagos State Government’s continued investment in public safety, emergency preparedness, and the expansion of fire and rescue infrastructure across the state.
The 150 firefighters completed a six-month intensive training programme at the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Technical Training Centre in Ikeja before being deployed for active service.
Following the successful completion of the programme, the recruits received the Basic Firefighting Competency Certificate (BFCC), confirming that they have acquired the skills and knowledge required for modern firefighting and rescue operations.
The induction ceremony also marked the official operational launch of the Oworonshoki Fire Station, further expanding emergency response coverage in one of Lagos’ strategic communities.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Controller General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, congratulated the newly inducted officers on completing their training.
She encouraged the recruits to remain disciplined, dedicated, and committed to continuous learning as they begin practical field assignments across the state.
Adeseye described firefighting as a profession that demands professionalism, teamwork, resilience, and constant skill development to ensure efficient emergency response.
According to her, the latest recruitment represents the third phase of strategic personnel expansion under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
She recalled that the first batch of 100 firefighters was recruited in December 2020 during the COVID-19 period, followed by the recruitment of 435 additional personnel in May 2022.
The latest intake of 150 officers, recruited in December 2025, brings the total number of firefighters employed under the Sanwo-Olu administration to 685.
Adeseye said the recruitment exercise has significantly strengthened the operational capacity of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, enabling the agency to respond more effectively to emergencies across the state.
She also highlighted the operational commencement of the Oworonshoki Fire Station as another milestone in the government’s efforts to improve emergency preparedness.
According to the Controller General, the new facility increases the number of public fire stations built under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration to 11.
She added that the state also operates another fire station through a Public-Private Partnership with the Startimes Estate Community Development Association, expanding emergency response coverage even further.
Adeseye commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his sustained investment in emergency management, describing the administration’s support as a major boost to public safety.
She noted that the government’s continued recruitment of firefighters, construction of additional fire stations, and provision of modern firefighting equipment demonstrate a long-term commitment to protecting residents and public infrastructure.
The Controller General assured Lagos residents that the Fire and Rescue Service remains fully committed to delivering prompt, efficient, and proactive emergency response services.
She said the agency will continue improving operational readiness through regular training, technological upgrades, and strategic deployment of personnel and equipment.
Experts in emergency management have consistently emphasised that expanding fire service capacity plays a critical role in improving urban safety and reducing response times.
The establishment of additional fire stations also enhances access to emergency services in rapidly growing communities while supporting disaster preparedness across the state.
Analysts believe continuous investment in fire and rescue infrastructure is essential for a megacity like Lagos, where population growth and urban development increase the demand for efficient emergency services.
The induction of additional firefighters is expected to improve operational efficiency, strengthen public confidence, and enhance the agency’s ability to respond to emergencies in different parts of the state.
Residents have welcomed the government’s sustained investment in emergency response infrastructure, noting that improved fire service capacity contributes to safer communities and better protection of lives and property.
With the induction of 150 new firefighters and the opening of the Oworonshoki Fire Station, the Lagos State Government has taken another significant step toward building a stronger, more responsive, and resilient emergency management system that supports sustainable urban development and public safety.
