Lagos Fire Service Launches Fire Marshal Club to Strengthen Community Safety

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has inaugurated a Fire Marshal Club and organised a state-wide Safety Walk to deepen community participation in fire prevention and emergency response. The awareness campaign commenced from the Service Headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, proceeded through the Ikeja Fire Station, and returned to the headquarters, drawing personnel and stakeholders committed to public safety.

Controller General Margaret Adeseye explained that while fire incidents remain a concern in Lagos, there has been a marginal reduction in reported cases between 2024 and 2025. She stressed that although fire outbreaks cannot be completely eliminated, strict adherence to safety protocols, behavioural change, and collective responsibility can significantly reduce risks across communities.

Adeseye described the Fire Marshal system as a globally recognised volunteer framework designed to empower community members with fire prevention skills. According to her, establishing Fire Marshal Clubs in markets, commercial centres, and neighbourhoods across the state will improve emergency preparedness and ensure quicker grassroots response before professional responders arrive.

Also speaking, General Manager of the Lagos State Command and Control Centre, Mr. Femi Giwa, underscored the importance of inter-agency synergy in line with the THEMES Plus development agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. He noted that trained Fire Marshals would serve as vital connectors between residents and emergency services, particularly through the effective use of designated toll-free emergency numbers.

Fire safety expert Dr. Julius Agbo commended the initiative, citing research indicating that nearly 95 per cent of fire incidents stem from unsafe human actions. He emphasised sustained public enlightenment and behavioural reform as critical to reducing avoidable disasters. The inauguration marks another strategic step by the Lagos State Government to safeguard lives and property through prevention, partnership, and strengthened emergency systems.