In light of fire outbreaks in the state, Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, tasked Lagosians to be more safety-conscious.
The governor, who spoke at the unveiling of new fire stations at Ijegun-Egba and Ijede, Ikorodu, said the two new stations were sited where they are most needed. He added that they have been equipped to handle domestic fires, industrial accidents, and any other emergencies.
“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,” said the governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Abimbola Sailu-Hundeyin at the Ijede commissioning and the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Sesan Tunde Ogundeko, at the Ijegun-Egba commissioning.
Sanwo-Olu said the stations were part of the government’s developmental agenda, adding that 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 lives of Lagosians.
The governor expressed confidence in the ‘courageous firefighters’, adding, ‘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.’
In his speech, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Gbenga Oyerinde, noted that with the population of Lagos growing, there is a need for adequate emergency response infrastructure, especially in cases of fire incidents.
He added that the new fire station demonstrated the state government’s commitment to the safety of Lagosians.
A frontline monarch in Ijede Local Council Area, the Obateru of Egbin Kingdom, Oba Adeoriyomi Oyebo, said the community had anticipated the station’s construction and thanked the governor for making it a reality.
He urged the people to support the government in maintaining the station.
