The Chief Fire and Rescue Officer in Enugu State, Chief Okwudili Ohaa, on Wednesday lauded Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for innovating fire operations in the state after 56 years of utter neglect.
Ohaa made the commendation on Wednesday in Enugu during the commemoration of the International Fire-Fighters’ Day (IFFD) and celebration of “Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administrative giant strides in repositioning fire service in the state”.
He said that Ugwuanyi began the retooling process in terms of human capital and provision of modern fire-fighting equipment and vehicles for the fire department.
According to him, the innovative strides by the governor are numerous which include establishment of five new ultra-modern fire stations across the three senatorial zones of the state in line with 21st century fire service demand.
He said that Ugwuanyi was the first governor to provide personal protective equipment for the safety of all the fire-fighters in the state.
“Gov Ugwuanyi’s administration created a separate accounting unit for the state fire service.
“This eradicated administrative bottlenecks and red tapism in the system that affected efficient service delivery until he came to power,” he said.
The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Mr Jaji Abdulganiyu, said that the commemoration of the International Fire Service Day was meant to enlighten the public to know how to prevent fire outbreaks.
Abdulganiyu, represented by Mr Chika Njoku of Zone D Federal Fire Service in Enugu, commended Ugwuanyi for the innovation brought so far on the state fire service operations.
Responding, Ugwuanyi, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simeon Ortuanya, commended the chief fire officer and his men for their efforts in keeping the state safe.
Ugwuanyi appreciated the agency for honouring him with an “Award of Life Ambassador”.
He urged the service personnel to continue to work effectively in carrying out their assignment in the state while enjoying government continuous support. (NAN)
