Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the courage, professionalism, and service of fire responders, calling on citizens and stakeholders to collaborate in enhancing preparedness and reducing fire incidents across the state.
Speaking at the opening of the second edition of the Lagos International Fire Safety Conference in Victoria Island, themed “Leveraging Technology and Community Engagement to Prevent Fires”, the Governor pledged his administration’s commitment to deploying smart technology, embracing innovation, and ensuring active community participation through traditional rulers and Community Development Councils and Associations.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, noted that the conference was not just for fire responders but also a shared platform for individuals, communities, and the private sector to learn best practices in fire management and prevention. He stressed the importance of building a safer and more secure Lagos for all.
Presenting the 2024 activity report, the Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, disclosed that the agency recorded 1,952 fire, rescue, and related emergencies during the year, saving property valued at ₦117.12 billion from destruction.
Stakeholders, including traditional rulers and fire safety experts, applauded the state government for its commitment to risk reduction, emergency preparedness, and fire incident prevention, in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda on security and governance.
The conference attracted lawmakers, senior government officials, the Fire Safety Equipment Dealers Association, and international participants from countries including Congo, Egypt, Tanzania, Togo, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Slovenia, and the Philippines, who came together to share knowledge and strategies for improving fire safety.