The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has donated 146 units of personal protective equipment (PPE) to fire stations in Asokoro and Kuje areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of efforts to enhance fire emergency response in the FCT.
Speaking during the donation on Monday in Abuja, the deputy director of administration at IHVN, Mr. Olafadehun Abiodun who represented the institute, emphasised the critical role of firefighting as a public service.
Earlier in 2024, IHVN partnered with the Africa Fire Mission (AFM) and the FCT Fire Service to train over 25 safety and security officers on “Advancing Firefighting Operations, Tactics and Leadership.”
“We have been collaborating with the FCT Fire Service for some time now. During this partnership, we identified certain gaps that needed to be filled,” Abiodun said. “While we understand the government cannot do everything, we felt it necessary to step in and assist in bridging these gaps.”
Abiodun disclosed that similar donations were made the previous day to other fire stations, including the NJI Fire Station, the Games Village Station, the Asokoro headquarters and the Kuje station.
The donation comprises 146 PPE kits, with each firefighter receiving two kits. “Prior to this, we conducted capacity-building sessions on the proper usage of the PPEs. During the training, we identified the gaps and decided to bridge them,” he added.
He urged fire officers to utilise the equipment effectively to enhance service delivery, noting that the donation followed the training facilitated by the Africa Fire Mission.
In his response, the acting director of the FCT Fire Service, Engr. Zacheus Adebayo expressed gratitude to IHVN for its timely support. He highlighted the daily risks faced by firefighters, including exposure to smoke, ‘naked’ wires and extreme temperatures.
“This donation comes at the right time, especially during the dry season when fire outbreaks are prevalent. We are doing everything possible to minimise their impact and this support from IHVN is greatly appreciated,” Adebayo said.
Similarly, the head of operations at the FCT Fire Service, Engr. Adesina Abioye thanked IHVN and assured that the equipment would be used effectively. He called on other organisations and individuals to emulate IHVN’s gesture by supporting the Fire Service with essential equipment.
The donated PPEs include jackets, trousers, gloves, helmets and boots, aimed at improving firefighter safety and operational efficiency.
